Anaphylaxis - Epipen Auto Injector

When it comes to selecting an anaphylaxis first aid training provider, St John Ambulance Cymru is the leader in Wales. In the UK, St John Ambulance is one of the voluntary aid societies (VAS) who are recognised by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) as standard setters for first aid training in accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) regulations 1981. We don't require external accreditation through an Awarding Organisation.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening allergic reaction. It can happen to you seconds or potentially minutes or even hours after being exposed to something you are allergic to. It is your body's immune system reacting to something which is usually harmless. There are many common triggers that can result in an anaphylactic reaction. This includes: Bee stings or a sting from other insects such as wasps and hornets; Food allergies and food intolerances such as nuts, milk, shellfish, eggs; Latex, such as latex gloves; Some medicines can cause this too, such as aspirin. This is not an exhaustive list. In fact sometimes an anaphylactic shock can occur with no obvious trigger. This is known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.

Common anaphylaxis symptoms can include trouble breathing, feeling faint, wheezing, and a fast heartbeat. Symptoms for a severe allergic reaction may also include clammy skin, anxiety and confusion, and losing consciousness. You may also experience other allergy symptoms associated with the allergy, such as a skin rash. The ideal option to preventing anaphylaxis is to avoid triggers. If that's not possible, then knowing how to help will be crucial. The more people with anaphylaxis awareness, the better. That's why we are proud to offer the anaphylaxis course across Wales.

An EpiPen is a branded adrenaline auto injector. An auto injector is a pen-like tool that is used to administer adrenaline into someone having suffering from anaphylaxis. As well as EpiPen, other brands of auto injector include Emerade and JEXT.

Essentially anyone can administer an auto-injector in an emergency. That's why it's vital to be trained in order to do so properly. You may find that the person suffering from anaphylactic shock may want to administer it themselves in the first instance. however you should know how to in case they are unable to.

We offer the anaphylaxis first aid training course across Wales to teach you what to do when faced with anaphylactic shock. If six or more of your employees require training then we can also come to you. Contact us for a quote and more information.