Hosting a Child with a Food Allergy – What You Need to Know

I found this short, but informational piece in Parents Magazine. It’s for any parent who hosts a child with a food allergy at their house.

Parents/Hosts….

You should know how to use an EpiPen in case a child has a serious allergic reaction (called anaphylaxis) while in your care. Carol Jones, RN, nurse coordinator with the Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics, gives instructions.

Before the playdate, ask what the child’s first reaction is. Usually it’s hives, flushing, rash, or swollen lips or eyes. It’s crucial to inject the EpiPen before the tongue or throat swells.

Remove the cap and grasp the pen in your fist, needle-end down. Press it firmly against the child’s outer thigh – you can go right through the pant leg – until you hear a click. Count to 20 and pull it out.

Call 911. Lay him or her down with the feet elevated while you’re waiting for the ambulance. If he or she can’t breathe, administer CPR.