TL;DR
Epinephrine Auto-Injector: Pre-filled IM device for anaphylaxis. Administered to lateral thigh.
Epinephrine Auto-Injector
Definition
Pre-filled IM device for anaphylaxis. Administered to lateral thigh.
Assessment Techniques
Assessment techniques for epinephrine auto-injector:
- APGAR
- Components: Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiration. Scoring: 0-10 at 1 and 5 minutes, under 7 needs intervention
- SAMPLE
- Components: Signs/symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last intake, Events. Scoring: Mnemonic for patient history gathering
- Glasgow Coma Scale
- Components: Eye opening (1-4), Verbal response (1-5), Motor response (1-6). Scoring: 3-15, 8 or less = severe, 9-12 = moderate, 13-15 = mild
Documentation
Documentation of epinephrine auto-injector in the patient care report (PCR) must include: time of assessment, findings, interventions performed, patient response, and reassessment findings. Use objective, measurable terms like "patient reports 8/10 chest pain" rather than "patient in pain." Document pertinent negatives. All medications administered must include drug name, dose, route, time, and patient response.
Key Values & Ranges
Key values and ranges relevant to epinephrine auto-injector in prehospital care:
| Parameter | Adult | Pediatric |
|---|---|---|
| GCS | 15 is normal, under 8 = severe TBI | modified pediatric GCS for preverbal |
| blood pressure | 90/60-120/80 mmHg | 70+(2*age) systolic minimum |
| respiratory rate | 12-20 breaths/min | 25-50 (infant), 15-30 (child) |
| blood glucose | 70-140 mg/dL | 60-100 mg/dL (neonates lower) |
| ETCO2 | 35-45 mmHg | 35-45 mmHg |
| temperature | 97.8-99.1 F (36.5-37.3 C) | same range, rectal preferred under 2yo |
Professional Standards
Professional standards for epinephrine auto-injector are established by the relevant certification body and regulatory agencies. Certified professionals must demonstrate competency through examination and maintain credentials through continuing education. Scope of practice is defined by state law and facility policy. Never perform tasks outside your authorized scope.
Workplace Applications
In daily practice, epinephrine auto-injector is applied consistently according to facility protocols and current evidence-based guidelines. Competency is maintained through annual skills validation, continuing education, and quality improvement participation.
Why It Matters
Epi-pen indications and administration tested on EMT exam.
Related Terms
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