Common Mistakes to Avoid During Allergic Reactions

Understanding common errors can prevent delayed treatment and improve outcomes.

Critical Mistakes:

1. Waiting Too Long to Use EpiPen

- "Maybe it will get better" - Waiting for all symptoms - Fear of "wasting" EpiPen - Delayed treatment can be fatal - When in doubt, use it

2. Using Antihistamines Instead of EpiPen

- Benadryl doesn't stop anaphylaxis - Wastes critical time - Creates false security - EpiPen first, antihistamines second - No substitute for epinephrine

3. Sitting or Standing Up

- Reduces blood flow to brain - Can cause sudden death - Even if they feel better - Only sit if can't breathe lying down - Fatal errors documented

4. Not Calling 911 After EpiPen

- Effects wear off in 15-20 minutes - Biphasic reactions common - Need medical observation - May need additional doses - IV medications often required

DO vs. DON'T Comparison List:

| DO | DON'T | |---|---| | Use EpiPen at first signs of anaphylaxis | Wait to see if it gets worse | | Call 911 even after EpiPen | Assume one dose is enough | | Keep person lying flat | Let them sit/stand up | | Give second dose if needed (5-15 min) | Hesitate to give second dose | | Remove allergen if possible | Try to make them vomit | | Stay with person constantly | Leave to get supplies | | Use EpiPen through clothing | Waste time removing pants | | Save used EpiPen for EMS | Throw away evidence |

Medication Errors:

EpiPen Mistakes:

- Wrong end (needle stick to thumb) - Not holding long enough - Injecting into buttocks - Using expired as first choice - Not pressing hard enough

Storage Errors:

- Extreme temperatures - Not carrying everywhere - Expired medications - No backup dose - Inaccessible location