Emergency Action Plan
Know exactly what to do when a severe allergic reaction occurs. This step-by-step guide will help you respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.
In a real emergency, call for help immediately
911 (US) | 999 (UK) | 112 (EU) | Your local emergency number
What to Do: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps in order when responding to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Recognize the Reaction
Identify signs of a severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, swelling of throat/tongue, rapid pulse, dizziness, widespread hives.
Call Emergency Services
Call 911 (US), 999 (UK), 112 (EU), or your local emergency number immediately. State that someone is having a severe allergic reaction.
Use Epinephrine
If an epinephrine auto-injector is available and prescribed, use it immediately. Inject into the outer thigh, through clothing if needed.
Position the Person
Help them lie down with legs elevated (unless breathing is difficult—then have them sit up). If vomiting, turn on their side.
Monitor & Wait for Help
Stay with them, monitor breathing and consciousness. Be prepared to give a second dose of epinephrine after 5-15 minutes if needed.
Do's and Don'ts
Important guidelines to remember during an allergic emergency.
- Stay calm and act quickly
- Call emergency services immediately
- Use epinephrine if prescribed and available
- Help them lie down with legs elevated
- Loosen tight clothing
- Cover them with a blanket to prevent shock
- Stay with them until help arrives
- Note the time epinephrine was given
- Be prepared for CPR if they stop breathing
- Don't wait to see if symptoms improve
- Don't hesitate to use epinephrine
- Don't have them sit up if they feel faint
- Don't give them anything to drink
- Don't leave them alone
- Don't assume they're fine after epinephrine
- Don't use an expired auto-injector if a current one is available
What to Do After Using Epinephrine
Epinephrine is not the end of treatment—it's the first step. Here's what comes next.
- 1Always call 911 even if symptoms improve
- 2Note the exact time the injection was given
- 3Keep the person lying down with legs elevated
- 4Monitor for return of symptoms (biphasic reaction)
- 5A second dose may be needed after 5-15 minutes
- 6Go to the emergency room for observation (at least 4 hours)
- 7Follow up with an allergist afterward
Biphasic Reactions
A second dose of epinephrine may be needed if symptoms don't improve or return within 5-15 minutes after the first injection.
Always follow the specific instructions provided with your auto-injector and consult your healthcare provider about when a second dose is appropriate.
Printable Resources
Download and print these resources to keep on hand for emergencies.