If you or your child has a severe allergy, having a clear anaphylaxis action plan is essential—especially in schools, workplaces, and public settings. A well-prepared plan ensures that everyone knows what to do in case of a life-threatening allergic reaction. Let’s break down how to create an effective action plan for maximum safety and peace of mind.
Why You Need an Anaphylaxis Action Plan
✔️ Ensures quick and proper treatment in an emergency.
✔️ Prepares teachers, coworkers, and caregivers to recognize symptoms.
✔️ Prevents delays in using epinephrine, which is critical for survival.
✔️ Reduces anxiety by establishing clear steps for emergency situations.
What to Include in an Anaphylaxis Action Plan
- Personal Information
- Full name, date of birth, emergency contacts.
- Known allergens (e.g., peanuts, shellfish, latex, insect stings, medications).
- Recognizing Anaphylaxis Symptoms
- Mild symptoms: Hives, itching, swelling, runny nose, mild nausea.
- Severe symptoms (life-threatening):
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or throat tightness.
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face.
- Dizziness, fainting, or drop in blood pressure.
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea.
- Feeling of impending doom.
- Step-by-Step Emergency Instructions
- Administer epinephrine immediately (do not wait for symptoms to worsen).
- Use the correct dose based on weight/age.
- Call 911 and inform them anaphylaxis is occurring.
- Lay the person flat unless breathing difficulty requires sitting up.
- Administer a second dose of epinephrine if symptoms do not improve in 5–10 minutes.
- Stay with the person and monitor vital signs until help arrives.
- Location of Epinephrine Auto-Injectors
- Clearly state where the auto-injectors are kept at school or work (e.g., office, classroom, desk, backpack).
- Ensure at least two doses are available.
- Additional Medications (if prescribed by a doctor)
- Antihistamines (for mild symptoms, but never a substitute for epinephrine).
- Asthma inhaler (if asthma is triggered by allergens).
- Who Needs to Be Trained?
- Teachers, school nurses, cafeteria staff.
- Employers, HR staff, coworkers.
- Coaches, babysitters, caregivers.
Downloadable & Customizable Anaphylaxis Action Plans
- The FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) website provides printable anaphylaxis action plan templates.
- Many schools and workplaces require a physician-signed plan—check with administration.
FAQ: Anaphylaxis Plans for Schools & Workplaces
Q: Can schools or workplaces refuse to store epinephrine?
A: Most U.S. states have laws requiring schools to allow epinephrine auto-injectors. Workplaces vary—HR policies should be reviewed.
Q: Should my child self-carry epinephrine at school?
A: If they are old enough, yes! Some schools allow self-carry with physician approval.
Q: Do I need a doctor’s note for an epinephrine plan at work?
A: Some workplaces require documentation for medical accommodations—check HR policies.
A Personal Story
One of my patients, Emily, had a severe peanut allergy. Her school had an outdated plan, and during a reaction, teachers hesitated to use epinephrine. After updating her action plan and training staff, her school became better prepared, ensuring faster response times in the future.
The Bottom Line
An anaphylaxis action plan can save lives. Whether at school or work, clear steps, proper training, and access to epinephrine are essential for safety. Talk to your doctor and school/work administrators today to ensure you have a comprehensive, up-to-date plan in place!
What are you waiting for? If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!
Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now! Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!
Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.
Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies. Buy it NOW!
Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.
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