Being prepared
An action plan for severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), provides a course of action to follow in the event of an allergic reaction, which is often due to food allergy or insect stings. Susceptible individuals and their families should be able to recognise the symptoms of anaphylaxis and know in advance what to do in an emergency.
Action plans
There are specific action plans for the type of adrenaline auto-injector device you use (EpiPen or Anapen). The plans cover administration of both the adult and junior versions of both brands. Insect allergy: these action plans also include reaction to insect allergy.
Accessing plans: The action plans are pdf files. If you have any difficulty accessing the plans from the links below, you can also access direct from ASCIA (the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy).
Anapen:
View the Anaphylaxis action plan using Anapen
EpiPen (newer):
View the Anaphylaxis action plan using EpiPen (newer pack) - the latest packaging for EpiPen includes a blue safety release and orange needle end. The newer design became available from approx June 2011 in New Zealand, but both versions are still valid to use (depending on expiry dates).
EpiPen (original):
View the Anaphylaxis action plan using EpiPen (original pack)
Further information
For more about adrenaline auto-injector devices, see Allergy New Zealand (contact details further below). Also see:
The Action Plans are reproduced with permission of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). The plans were updated by ASCIA in 2011. Reviewed by everybody, January 2012.
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