How To Use An EpiPen

Knowing how to use an EpiPen can save a life during a severe allergic reaction. This guide explains what an EpiPen is, signs of anaphylaxis, when and how to use the device, and what to do after. Learn key steps, avoid common mistakes, and build confidence through first aid training.

Introduction

When someone is having a severe allergic reaction, every second counts. Severe allergic reactions can happen without warning, and when they do, you only have a short window to respond. That’s where an EpiPen comes in. If you or someone close to you lives with a severe allergy, it is essential to know exactly how to use this device.

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what an EpiPen is, how it works and the steps on how to use one, so you can feel confident if the situation ever arises.

What Is An EpiPen?

An EpiPen is a type of auto-injector used to deliver a dose of adrenaline (also known as Epinephrine, hence the name EpiPen) into the body during a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Adrenaline works quickly to reduce swelling, open up airways and improve blood circulation, buying crucial time until emergency medical help arrives.

EpiPens are commonly prescribed to people with serious allergies to things like peanuts, shellfish, insect stings or certain medications, and the individual with the allergy is likely to carry one around with them wherever they go. Epipens are designed to be easy to use, even if you’ve never used one before, and in high stress situations.

There are different versions, including EpiPen Jr for children under a certain way, but they all work in the same basic way, a fast livesaving shot of adrenaline when it’s needed most.

Signs of Anaphylaxis

Recognising the signs of a severe allergic reaction is the first step. Anaphylaxis can develop quickly, so it’s important to act at the first signs, rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Common signs include:

Swelling of the lips, face or throat
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Rapid heartbeat
Hives or widespread rash
Feeling faint, dizzy or confused,
Nausea or vomiting.

If someone you know has a severe allergy is showing one or more of these symptoms, and you suspect anaphylaxis, it’s time to use the EpiPen.

Quick Checks Before Using An EpiPen

Before using the EpiPen, take a few seconds to check the following:

The device hasn’t expired (check side of device or label, usually close to the blue safety cap)
The liquid inside the window is clear (not cloudy or discoloured)
You have the correct version (EpiPen or EpiPen Jr)

Time is critical, so don’t spend too long looking for these details. If you’re unsure whether it is truly anaphylaxis, it is better to use the EpiPen than to wait - using it won’t do any harm, but waiting too long can.

How To Use An EpiPen: Step by Step

Stay Calm And Act Quickly -Time is critical during a severe allergic reaction, so you need to be calm to act efficiently. Take a deep breath and focus on the steps.
Remove The EpiPen From Its Carrier Tube - The Epipen should be in a small, sturdy plastic tube, usually blue or clear. Take it out of the casing.
Take Off The Blue Safety Cap - Hold the EpiPen firmly in your dominant hand and pull off the blue safety cap. Don’t twist or bend, just pull it straight out. Do not touch the orange tip, this is the needle.
Position The EpiPen Against The Outer Thigh - Place the orange tip against the middle of the outer thigh at a 90 degrees angle. It can be injected through clothing if needed.
Push The EpiPen Firmly Until It Clicks - Push the device firmly into the thigh until you hear a click, indicating the injection has started.
Hold The EpiPen In Place For At Least 3 seconds - Keep it pressed firmly against the thigh for at least 3 seconds after the click to ensure the full dose is delivered.
Remove the EpiPen and massage the injection site - After removing, gently rub the injection area for about 10 seconds to help absorption.

Remember, Blue to the Sky, Orange to the Thigh!

What To Do After Using An EpiPen

After administering the injection, call emergency services immediately, or better yet, get someone else to call whilst you’re administering the injection. Lay the person down with their legs raised, unless they’re vomiting or having trouble breathing. If symptoms don’t improve within 5-10 minutes, and medical help hasn’t arrived, use a second EpiPen if one is available.

Stay with the person and provide reassurance until professional help takes over. You being there and reassuring them that help is on the way will be a massive relief to the individual. Be sure to inform the medical staff that an EpiPen has been used so they can provide any further treatment necessary.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using An EpiPen

When it comes to using an EpiPen, hesitation or errors can be costly. One of the biggest mistakes people make is delaying the injection. At first sign of a severe allergic reaction, it’s essential to act quickly. Another common error is injecting in the wrong location. The EpiPen should always be used on the middle of the outer thigh. Injecting elsewhere like the arm or the buttocks can reduce its effectiveness. People also sometimes don’t hold the EpiPen in place long enough. It is important to press firmly and hold it against the thigh for a full 3 seconds to ensure the full dose is delivered.

Other mistakes to watch out for:

Using an expired EpiPen - Always check the expiry date and clarity of liquid before use.
Not calling emergency services - Always call 999 after someone has experienced a severe allergic reaction, as just the EpiPen might not be enough. They need to see a medical professional as soon as possible, even if their symptoms seem to improve.
Not carrying a back up EpiPen - If prescribed, always have a second device available in case a follow up dose is needed.

Avoiding these common pitfalls can help ensure the EpiPen works effectively when it’s needed most.

Conclusion

Using an EpiPen correctly and promptly is crucial in managing severe allergic reactions and can truly save lives. While the device is designed to be simple and quick to use, it’s important to stay calm and follow the steps carefully. Remember to check your EpiPen regularly to ensure it hasn’t expired and that the liquid is clear.

After using the EpiPen, always seek immediate medical attention as further treatment may be necessary. Practicing with a trainer device and familiarising yourself with the process can help build confidence, so you’re prepared if an emergency arises.

We teach essential, life saving skills like EpiPen administration on our First Aid Courses. Whether you’re a parent, teacher or team leader, our training is designed to give you the confidence to act in an emergency. Find out more about our upcoming courses and how to book your place.