In: Nursing
can you administer adult epipen to a Child experiencing allergic reaction?
“EpiPen” is the auto-injectable device that administers the epinephrine drug into the body. It is highly recommended for people experiencing severe allergic reactions. The drug epinephrine hijacks the whole body and shut down the allergic responses. The blood vessels are constricted, which increases blood pressure and reduces swelling. The muscles near the airways are relaxed which in turn forces lungs to open.
Epinephrine further restricts the release of allergy-causing chemicals which halts the development of allergy. It is the only drug that controls the whole body and works on multi-organs for allergic responses. Thus, it is the only drug highly recommended in the case of allergic responses.
When a child eats something to which he or she is allergic, and showing symptoms of wheezing and has hives, then the shot must be given. However, there are certain cases where children are asymptomatic, then also, the shot must be given. This is because it will become difficult to stop allergic reactions if the EpiPen administration is delayed.
There are chances that mild allergic reactions may become severe and fatal quickly, in children. Thus, one should administer adult EpiPen to a child experiencing allergic reactions.