Diane J. Dilay, RN, and Janet R. Roberts, MD, from the Meadowood Medical Centre and the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada analyzed survey results from 75 members of a support group for parents of children with anaphylaxis. The study set out to determine why well informed parents often fail to administer an EpiPenŽ when needed.

Of the 41 respondents who reported one or more allergic reactions, 11 (27%) had used the EpiPen. The patients who were not administered the EpiPen showed symptoms of hives, respiratory distress, vomiting and abdominal pain, or lethargy. In those who had failed to administer the EpiPen, 72 percent felt the reaction had not been severe enough to warrant it.

Several other reasons were given as well, including a hospital was close by, new trigger causing reaction, concern regarding side effects of the shot, pain from shot, EpiPen was not available, the child was frightened, and perception that the responsible allergen would cause only a mild reaction.

All 11 respondents who administered the EpiPen sought further treatment in the emergency room. Sixteen of the respondents who did not use the EpiPen did seek emergency room treatment. However, 14 of the patients did not receive either the EpiPen or emergency room treatment, despite showing allergic symptoms.

Using the EpiPen early in anaphylaxis improves the chances of survival and a quick recovery. It appears from this study that parental denial, or failure to appreciate the severity of a reaction, is the major obstacle to using this life-saving treatment. Recognizing this, and directing educational efforts to correct it, is an important aspect of managing allergic reactions in children.

AAAAI News Release