How to Use an EpiPen
Step-by-Step Instructions [3]
Do you know how to use an EpiPen?
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition so if you know how to use an EpiPen correctly you can potentially save a life! Follow the simple guide below to learn how to use an EpiPen. Prefer a video? Click on any of the images in the guide below and it will direct you to a YouTube video. |
Cap colors are dependent on the different brand of EpiPen administered. Refer to the diagram below.
6. Hold the pen firmly against your thigh for 10 seconds.
7. Remove the pen from your thigh and massage the area you injected for 10 seconds.
The orange|black tip should now cover the needle.
If the needle is still exposed, then the dosage was not received. If this is the case, repeat the above steps.
The orange|black tip should now cover the needle.
If the needle is still exposed, then the dosage was not received. If this is the case, repeat the above steps.
8. Bend the needle on a hard surface to prevent accidental injections. Place the pen back into its container (if possible - it may not fit).
Do not place the blue|grey safety cap back on.
Do not place the blue|grey safety cap back on.
9. Call 911 and sit back or lie down.
Important Points to Remember After Using the EpiPen [2]
- Always call 911 after using the EpiPen: EpiPen is only a temporary solution to Anaphylaxis . The medicine will start to wear off in 20 to 30 minutes. Even if symptoms go away, a second reaction can occur 38 hours after the initial reaction. Medical supervision for at least 4 hours will be required after Anaphylaxis reaction.
- Discarding: Tell the ambulance crew you have the used EpiPen and they will discard it away in their sharps containers.
- Second EpiPen Dosage: Do not inject a second dose of EpiPen if the first injection caused increased breathing difficulty or dangerously high blood pressure (symptoms: severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, uneven heartbeats, seizure). If your symptoms have not improved after 5 to 10 minutes, repeat the above steps for a second dosage. Otherwise, a second dosage is not usually recommended unless administered under direct medical supervision.
DC