A person who has a severe allergic reaction can die quickly if their airway swells shut. This reaction can occur from insect stings or bites, food, drugs, latex, other allergens, exercise, or even unknown causes. Proper, timely use of an Epipen can save the person's life.


Steps

1. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. The effects of epinephrine are short-lived. EMTs and Paramedics have the skills and the equipment to provide Advanced Life Support that could make the difference between life and death. Do NOT delay calling 911 to administer the Epipen.
2. There is a black tip on the small end of the Epipen. Never put your fingers or hand over this, because this is where the needle comes out.
3. Don't take off the grey activation cap until you are ready to use the Epipen for real.
4. Hold the Epipen in your fist with the black tip pointing down.
5. Pull off the grey activation cap (opposite end from the black tip) with your other hand.
6. Hold the black tip near the outer thigh of the person who is getting the injection.
7. Gently but FIRMLY swing and jab the black tip into the outer thigh so that the auto-injector is perpendicular to the thigh.
8. Hold the epipen firmly in the thigh for several seconds.
9. Remove the unit and massage the injection area for several seconds.
10. Check the black tip. If the needle is exposed, the dose was received. If not, repeat the steps.
11. Note: Most of the liquid (90%) will stay in the auto-injector and cannot be re-used.
12. Carefully put the unit (needle first) back into the carrying tube without the activation cap.
13. Recap the tube.
14. Give the used Epipen to Emergency Medical personnel when they arrive on scene.

Tips

• Store the Epipen in a dark place at room temperature.
• Do not refrigerate
• Do not expose to extreme cold or heat
• Note the expiration date. The Epipen should be replaced when the date is approaching.

Warnings

• CALL 911 FIRST.
• Epipens should be used if you are hypersensitive and your doctor has prescribed it for emergencies. Only administer the Epipen to its owner.
• If you accidentally poke your finger or hand with the needle, it can result in a loss of blood flow.
• These instructions are from an Epipen Jr. Package. Your doctor should show you how to use the Epipen when he or she prescribes it.
• Always carry the instructions with the Epipen. That way, if you are incapacitated and someone else has to administer it, they'll know how.