Table 4 Components of an anaphylaxis action plan [16, 27]
From: Anaphylaxis
Contact details • Names and contact details for emergencies, including family members, allergist/immunologist and family doctor • Contact details for local emergency or ambulance services |
Allergens/triggers • Clear identification of allergens/triggers to be avoided – Include generic and proprietary names of drugs and possible cross-sensitivities, if relevant |
How to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis • Mouth: itching, swelling of lips/tongue • Throat: itching, tightness, closure, hoarseness • Skin: itching, hives, eczema, swelling, flushing • Gut: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain • Lung: shortness of breath, cough, wheeze • Heart: hypotension, dizziness, syncope, tachycardia • Neuro (or head): lightheadedness • Other: feeling of impending doom, anxiety |
Medications prescribed and when they should be used • Epinephrine auto-injectors (first-line); should include detailed instructions (with photographs, if possible) on how to correctly administer the auto-injector device (for daycare, school and/or office staff) • Antihistamines (for cutaneous symptoms) • Inhaled beta2-agonists (for bronchospasm) |
Where medication is stored at home, work or school |