In Brisbane, where emergency response times can vary due to factors like hospital ramping and paramedic delays, understanding how to manage anaphylaxis with adrenaline auto-injectors is crucial. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate intervention, and the guidelines for using auto-injectors often assume a quick paramedic response, which isn’t always the case in real-world situations.

An adrenaline auto-injector is your first line of defence when treating anaphylaxis. It delivers a dose of adrenaline to slow down the patient’s condition, buying valuable time until advanced medical help arrives. The Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) recommends using two doses, spaced five minutes apart, but what if help is delayed?

In many Brisbane workplaces, it’s standard to have at least one adrenaline auto-injector available, sometimes even a spare. These resources are essential, especially when paramedics may be delayed. The dose administered by an auto-injector is about half the strength of what paramedics typically give, but it’s often enough to stabilise the patient temporarily.

If paramedics haven’t arrived after the first two doses and the patient’s condition remains critical, a third dose may be necessary, particularly if there are clear signs of ongoing anaphylaxis. This decision should be made with caution, ideally after consulting with emergency services via 000. In some cases, the operator may advise administering an additional dose if the situation is deemed critical.

• Be Prepared: Ensure your workplace in Brisbane has adrenaline auto-injectors available and know how to use them.
• Act Quickly: Administer the first dose as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected.
• Monitor and Decide: If there’s no improvement after two doses and help is delayed, be prepared to administer a third dose if necessary.

Understanding and being prepared to act during an anaphylactic emergency can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome. Proper use of adrenaline auto-injectors is essential in these critical moments, especially in situations where every second counts