Tutor Quick Link – Allergies
1) IMMEDIATELY USE AN ADRENALINE AUTO-INJECTOR
2) CALL 999
3) POSITION THE CHILD SAFELY
Recognizing Anaphylaxis Signs
Watch for life-threatening symptoms affecting breathing, the airway, or consciousness:
- Airway: Persistent cough, hoarse voice, swollen tongue, or difficulty swallowing.
- Breathing: Noisy or difficult breathing, or persistent wheezing.
- Consciousness: Dizziness, pale or floppy appearance, sudden sleepiness, collapse, or unconsciousness.
Immediate Emergency Steps
- Position the child: Lie the child flat with their legs raised. If they are struggling to breathe, allow them to sit up slowly. Never let them stand or walk.
- Administer adrenaline: Use an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen or spare school AAI) into the outer thigh without delay. If in doubt, give adrenaline. Note the time it was given.
- Call emergency services: Dial 999, request an ambulance, and clearly state the word “ANAPHYLAXIS”.
- Second dose: If symptoms do not improve after 5 minutes, administer a second adrenaline auto-injector.
- Monitor and assist: Stay with the child at all times. Begin CPR immediately if there are no signs of life. Always send the child to the hospital for monitoring, even if they feel better.