California-based CPR and first aid Instructors should be on the lookout for new regulations that allow emergency treatment of anaphylaxis by using an epinephrine-auto injector, or EpiPen, without a prescription! Tomorrow I’ll be participating in our last California EpiPen workgroup meeting to finalize regulations for auto-injectors under SB 669, Emergency medical care: epinephrine auto-injectors.
Currently, we’re discussing the emergency training and records required to allow non-healthcare personnel to carry EpiPen auto-injectors in a emergency first aid kit.
The committee's goal is to allow EpiPen auto-injectors to be used by lay rescuers.
This important legislation for anaphylaxis will save lives. The regulations will be available for public later this month. If you want to be part of the process, stay tuned-in provide your comments. To comment on proposed EpiPen and anaphylaxis related regulations, visit EMSA’s website.
Immediate care of anaphylaxis by use of an epinephrine auto-injector is the gold standard for treating a severe allergic reaction. This EpiPen legislation will allow any lay rescuers to use an epinephrine auto-injector in an emergency. From teachers, to scout masters to the overnight sleepover, this anaphylaxis training will save countless lives of people who may have and an unfavorable outcome by the time 911 responders arrive on scene.
As we discuss in our emergency response training materials, the recognition and treatment of severe allergic reaction is straightforward. Anaphylaxis is characterized by swelling to the face, eyes, throat and tongue; difficulty breathing, signs of shock, redness, hives and itchy skin. Remember, the earlier the onsite of symptoms the more severe the reaction.
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