EpiPen Emergency Training
Anaphylaxis is a severe and life threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate action.
This training module will guide you through recognizing symptoms and properly using an EpiPen in an emergency situation.
How to use an EpiPen
Watch this short demonstration before continuing.
Step 1: Identify Signs of Anaphylaxis
What Is It?
Anaphylaxis is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen within minutes after exposure to an allergen such as food, medication, or insect stings. The body overreacts, causing swelling, breathing difficulty, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Immediate action is critical.
Look For These Warning Signs
- Breathing: Wheezing, Tight chest, Throat swelling
- Skin: Hives, Lip/face swelling
- Circulation: Dizziness, Fainting
Breathing or fainting is considered emergency. Use EpiPen.
When to Use an EpiPen
Use an EpiPen immediately if:
- The person has a known severe allergy and symptoms appear
- There is difficulty breathing
- The throat feels tight or swollen
- The person feels faint or collapses
If unsure, use the EpiPen.
Delaying treatment is more dangerous than giving it unnecessarily.
Step 2: Inspect the EpiPen
Before using the EpiPen always double-check that it is safe to use. Check the expiration date and make sure the medication in the viewing window is clear and colorless. If the medication is expired, cloudy, or discolored do not use the injector. If you believe the medication is not safe, replace the EpiPen and call for emergency help.
Clear/Seethrough: Safe to use
Anything else: DO NOT USE
Step 3: Grip the EpiPen Correctly
Grip the EpiPen firmly in your fist, holding it around the middle of the device. Keep your thumb and fingers away from both ends. Do not place your thumb over the orange tip or the blue safety cap. A proper grip prevents accidental self-injection and ensures safe administration.
Never place your thumb over either end.
Step 4: Remove blue cap
Hold the EpiPen firmly in your fist. Pull the blue safety cap straight up to remove it. Do not twist or bend the cap. Once the cap is removed, the device is activated. Keep your fingers away from the orange tip.
Step 5: Position the EpiPen
Place the orange tip against the outer thigh. Hold the EpiPen at a 90-degree angle to the leg. The injection can be given through clothing if necessary. Ensure the device is positioned firmly before administering.
Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh.
Step 6: Inject and Hold
Push the EpiPen firmly into the outer thigh at a 90° angle until you hear or feel a click. Keep the device pressed against the thigh for 3–10 seconds to deliver the full dose. Remove the EpiPen and massage the area for 10 seconds.
After using an EpiPen:
· Call emergency services immediately
· The person must still be evaluated
· A second dose may be needed if symptoms continue
This reinforces that EpiPen is emergency first aid, not full treatment.
Ready to Test Your Skills?
You've learned how to safely use an EpiPen. It's time to apply what you know.
You will complete interactive mini-activities to demonstrate safe and correct EpiPen use.
You may be asked to drag, click, or place steps in the correct order.
Avoid critical mistakes and follow the correct sequence.
Work carefully. In an emergency, correct actions matter.
Identify Signs of Anaphylaxis
Select the person showing signs of anaphylaxis.
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Is the EpiPen Safe to Use?
Examine the medication in the viewing window. Select Safe or Not Safe.
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Grip the EpiPen Safely
Drag the hand and place it where the EpiPen should be safely held.
Remove the Blue Safety Cap
Drag the blue cap straight up to remove it.
Administer the Injection
Select the correct injection site and administer the dose.
Select the correct injection site by clicking the matching number.
You're Ready to Act
Congratulations. You have completed EpiPen training and testing.
In a real emergency, administer the injection immediately and call 911 right away.
EpiPen is the first step and emergency medical care is still required.
