Based upon the "Occupational Health Risk assessment Questionnaire" and evaluation by a physician, an epinephrine pen may be prescribed for personnel deemed to be at an elevated risk of anaphylaxis. Epinephrine constricts blood vessels in the digestive tract and skin and raises blood pressure. It also widens the air passages to make breathing easier. The earlier epinephrine is given, the more effective it is at stopping the reaction. Symptoms usually improve quickly after epinephrine is administered. Although epinephrine acts fast, its effects are short-lived and may require a second and third dose over several hours to control symptoms. In the event that a person is having severe asthma or anaphylaxis, the campus Public Safety emergency number should be phoned to summon emergency medical help. If the person loses consciousness, their feet should be kept raised while waiting for medical assistance. Keep them warm and make sure their airway remains open. If he/she seems to be having trouble breathing, he/she should be placed on the ground with his/her head tilted back. This helps get the tongue out of the way of air flow.
NEXT
