How to Use an Anaphylaxis Emergency Kit

This guide explains how to respond to a suspected anaphylactic emergency using an anaphylaxis kit containing adrenaline auto-injectors. Anaphylaxis is a serious medical emergency and requires rapid action.

Recognising the Emergency

In this scenario, a casualty is showing signs of a serious allergic reaction and is already sitting on the floor. This is a safer position because it reduces the risk of them falling if they become weak, dizzy or collapse.

If the casualty is leaning against something, such as a wall or radiator, check that it is safe. For example, if they are leaning against a radiator, ensure it is turned off and not causing discomfort or injury.

Get the Anaphylaxis Kit

Tell the casualty that you are going to get the emergency anaphylaxis kit. Go to where the kit is stored, collect it, and bring it directly back to the casualty.

Some kits are stored in a display holder with a visible sign underneath. Once the kit has been removed, the sign makes it clear that the emergency kit is no longer in place and has been taken for use.

Opening the Kit

When you open the anaphylaxis kit, the security seal will break. This shows that the kit has been accessed. Once open, select the correct adrenaline auto-injector for the casualty.

Selecting the Correct Auto-Injector

Many kits contain both adult and junior adrenaline auto-injectors. Always check carefully that you have selected the correct dose before use.

In this example, an EpiPen is used. The kit clearly separates the adult and junior sides, but you should still double-check the label before administering or handing it to the casualty.

Preparing the Auto-Injector

Remove the auto-injector from its protective case. Hold it safely in your hand and do not place your thumb, fingers or hand over either end, as this could cause accidental activation or injury.

Remove the safety cap, following the manufacturer’s instructions. On an EpiPen, this means removing the blue safety cap. Once the cap is removed, the device is ready to be used.

Follow the Kit Instructions

The inside of the anaphylaxis kit should contain clear emergency instructions. These normally explain the key steps, including:

• Selecting the correct dose of adrenaline
• Removing the device from its packaging
• Keeping the instructions available
• Positioning the casualty safely
• Administering the adrenaline as instructed
• Calling 999 and asking for an ambulance

Positioning the Casualty

Where possible, lay the casualty down and raise their legs. However, this may not always be practical. If there is not enough room, or if the casualty is more comfortable sitting, keep them safely supported and as still as possible.

Administering the Adrenaline

If the casualty is able to use their own auto-injector, you may hand it to them so they can administer it themselves. If they cannot do this, follow your training and the device instructions.

The auto-injector is normally administered into the outer thigh, through clothing if necessary, depending on the device instructions.

After use, remove the auto-injector and make the area safe. The used device should be treated as a sharps risk and handled carefully.

Call 999 Immediately

After adrenaline has been given, call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Clearly state that the casualty is suffering from anaphylaxis. This helps the ambulance service understand the seriousness of the emergency and respond appropriately.

Keep the Casualty Calm and Still

Stay with the casualty and keep them as calm and still as possible. Reassure them while you wait for the emergency services to arrive. Do not allow them to walk around unnecessarily.

Giving a Second Dose

If the casualty’s symptoms do not improve after 5 to 10 minutes, a second dose of adrenaline may be needed. This is why many anaphylaxis kits contain two devices.

If a second dose is required, use the correct second auto-injector for the casualty. Where possible, administer the second dose into the opposite thigh.

Handover to the Ambulance Crew

When the ambulance crew arrive, tell them exactly what has happened. Include:

• What symptoms the casualty had
• How many auto-injectors were used
• Whether adult or junior devices were used
• The time each dose was given

This information is important so that emergency medical staff can continue treatment safely.

After the Emergency

Never place used auto-injectors back into the kit as if they are ready for use. Used devices must be disposed of correctly as sharps.

After the incident, replace any used auto-injectors immediately. If spare devices are available on site, place them into the kit so it is ready for another emergency. If not, reorder replacements as soon as possible and make sure staff know the kit is incomplete until it has been restocked.

Key Safety Points

• Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency.
• Use the correct adult or junior adrenaline auto-injector.
• Follow the device and kit instructions.
• Call 999 and say “anaphylaxis”.
• Keep the casualty calm, still and supported.
• Give a second dose after 5 to 10 minutes if symptoms do not improve.
• Dispose of used auto-injectors safely and restock the kit immediately.