Emergency First Aid for Allergic Reactions

Emergency Response for Severe Reactions

When to Call Emergency (000)

Call emergency services immediately if someone shows signs of:

• Difficult/noisy breathing
• Swelling of tongue
• Swelling/tightness in throat
• Wheeze/persistent cough
• Difficulty talking/hoarse voice
• Persistent dizziness/collapse
• Pale and floppy (young children)
• Abdominal pain/vomiting (for insect allergy)

Types of Allergic Reactions

Mild to Moderate Reactions

Symptoms include:

• Swelling of lips, face, eyes
• Hives or welts
• Tingling mouth
• Abdominal pain, vomiting (except for insect allergy)

Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

• Life-threatening condition
• Requires immediate medical attention
• Can develop within minutes of exposure
• May affect breathing and/or heart function

Emergency First Aid Steps

1. For Anaphylaxis

1. Follow ASCIA Action Plan if available
2. Administer adrenaline injector (EpiPen® or Anapen®)
   • Into outer mid-thigh
   • Hold in place for recommended time
3. Lay person flat
   • Do not allow them to stand or walk
   • If breathing is difficult, allow to sit
4. Call 000
5. Monitor and start CPR if needed
6. Give another dose after 5 minutes if no response
7. Hand injector to ambulance staff

2. For Mild-Moderate Reactions

1. Stay with person and call for help
2. Locate ASCIA Action Plan if available
3. Locate adrenaline injector if prescribed
4. Phone family/emergency contact
5. Monitor for anaphylaxis

Prevention and Preparation

Essential Items to Carry

If prescribed:

• Adrenaline injector (check expiry date)
• ASCIA Action Plan
• Mobile phone for emergencies

Risk Management

1. Know your triggers
2. Avoid known allergens
3. Wear medical identification jewelry
4. Inform family/friends/colleagues
5. Regular check-ups with healthcare provider

After an Emergency

Follow-up Care

1. See doctor for follow-up
2. Replace used adrenaline injector
3. Review and update action plan
4. Consider allergy specialist referral

Long-term Management

• Update emergency contacts
• Regular practice with trainer devices
• Educate family/carers in emergency response
• Review emergency plans annually

Important Notes

Storage of Adrenaline Injectors

• Keep at room temperature
• Protect from heat/cold
• Check expiry dates regularly
• Replace before expiry
• Keep readily accessible

Training

• Learn correct injection technique
• Practice with trainer device
• Teach others who may need to help
• Regular refresher training

Remember: Quick action in an emergency can save lives. When in doubt, use the adrenaline injector and call emergency services.