A nurse is providing teaching for a client who received a prescription for an epinephrine autoinjector to treat anaphylaxis. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Use the autoinjector if shortness of breath is the only symptom of anaphylaxis: An epinephrine autoinjector should be used for any signs of anaphylaxis, not just shortness of breath. Symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing should all trigger its use. B. Use the second autoinjector immediately after the first dose: The second dose of epinephrine is typically used if symptoms persist or recur after 5 to 15 minutes, not immediately after the first dose. The client should call emergency services after using the first dose and only use a second dose if directed by a healthcare provider. C. Hold the autoinjector firmly down for 10 seconds while injecting: The correct procedure for using the epinephrine autoinjector is to hold it in place for 10 seconds to ensure the full dose is administered. This is an important step to ensure the medication is fully delivered. D. Inject into the buttock or deltoid: The epinephrine autoinjector should be injected into the outer thigh (vastus lateralis muscle), not the buttock or deltoid. The thigh muscle allows for rapid absorption of the medication in an emergency.