EpiPen Injections...

We have EpiPens for our 2yo but thankfully have never had to use one. Yes, the practice one does take a decent amount of force and I am sure it hurts the child when you jab it in their leg. But, that temporary pain is nothing compared to not being able to breathe. This is meant to be used to save a child's life, so a little pain in the leg isn't really a big deal.

Be sure to have it with your AT ALL TIMES. Also, be sure to have Benadryl with you as well for more minor reactions. Make sure whoever has care of the child knows how to administer it and when to administer it. Also, make sure the child gets to the hospital immediately after an EpiPen injection.

I have and used an epi pen. It does hurt and It does take a lot of pressure but that is nothing compared to your child not being able to breathe. Also remember to leave it in for a least 20 seconds and call 911 the epi pen is only good for about 15 minutes. So your child needs to get to the hospital immediatley. When we first got the epi pen I practiced at least once a day. The more familiar you are with it the easier it will get. I am not sure if you are seeing an allergy specialist but I highly recommend it verses seeing just your regular pediatrician. They will help train and educate you on allergies. If you are in the pittsburgh area Childrens Hospital has an amazing doctor his name is Dr. Nash. He is wonderful with children and very helpful with the family. We have been going to him since my daughter was 9months old. Make sure everyone who is with your child is trained to use the epi pen. And understands everything about the allergy.

L.

Yes, an epi-pen takes a lot of pressure to activate, that is so you don't accidentally activate it. It's going to hurt. But, it's going to save his life! If you need to use it emergently, you probably will be nervous to begin with so take a deep breath, follow the instructions and don't hesitate - just do it. My suggestion would also be that if your son is reacting you would ALSO be calling 911.
Make sure Grammy knows how to use it too! It would probably also be wise to take a CPR course as well.

I give you this advice as a Mom and paramedic.

Good luck to you all!
S.

Hi L.,

Call your Doc and talk to the nurse about your concerns.

Good luck. D.

I"m not sure what the practice pens are like, I went to a training once where we had the opportunity to practice on an orange, I didn't do it, so i don't know how much pressure, but maybe practicing on something would help. Hope that wasn't too stupid.

I have never had to use mine pen for my son but I did create a little "cheat sheet" & laminate with contact paper to keep with my pen to remind me (or anyone else who has the pen) what needs to be done in case of an emergency. If you would like a copy, I could e-mail you. It is scary but gets easier with time. I now actually feel that I would know how to help if someone else's child needed help with an epi-pen because I have educated myself & anyone who we have left our son with.