OFA Level 1 First Aid Guide for Anaphylaxis

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Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate first aid intervention. As a Basic First Aid or OFA Level 1-certified first aid attendant, knowing how to recognize and manage anaphylactic shock can be the difference between life and death. This guide will walk you through workplace first aid protocols, ensuring compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations and equipping you with the knowledge to handle anaphylactic emergencies effectively.

What is Anaphylactic Shock?

Anaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction that can cause airway obstruction, respiratory failure, and circulatory collapse. It can develop within minutes of exposure to an allergen and progress rapidly if not treated.

Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis

First aid attendants must be aware of common workplace allergens that can trigger anaphylactic shock, including:

  • Insect stings (bees, wasps, hornets)
  • Food allergies (nuts, shellfish, dairy, eggs, soy, wheat)
  • Medications (antibiotics, NSAIDs, anesthesia)
  • Latex exposure (gloves, balloons, medical supplies)
  • Chemical irritants (industrial cleaning agents, fumes)

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Since anaphylaxis progresses quickly, recognizing early warning signs is critical for fast intervention:

  • Severe breathing difficulties (wheezing, gasping, airway swelling)
  • Skin reactions (hives, itching, facial swelling)
  • Circulatory distress (rapid heartbeat, dizziness, shock)
  • Swelling of the throat, tongue, or face
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Loss of consciousness

Some workers may wear a MedicAlert bracelet identifying a known allergy—always check for medical identification.

First Aid Response for Anaphylactic Shock

When responding to an anaphylactic emergency, follow the priority action approach:

1. Scene Assessment

  • Ensure the scene is safe before assisting the injured worker.
  • Remove the allergen source if possible (e.g., move the worker away from an insect nest).

2. Responsiveness Assessment

  • Use the AVPU scale (Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive) to assess consciousness.

3. Primary Survey (ABCs)

  • Airway (A): Look for swelling or obstruction. If the airway is blocked, prepare to intervene immediately.
  • Breathing (B): Listen for wheezing, gasping, or difficulty breathing.
  • Circulation (C): Check for shock symptoms (pale, clammy skin, weak pulse).

4. Activate Emergency Response Procedures

  • Call 911 immediately or direct a co-worker to activate workplace emergency protocols.
  • Provide clear information to emergency responders, including:
    • Worker’s condition
    • Possible allergen exposure
    • Actions already taken (e.g., epinephrine administered)

Administering an Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen®)

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. A first aid attendant can assist a worker with their prescribed EpiPen or administer it if the worker is unresponsive and experiencing anaphylaxis symptoms.

How to Administer an Epinephrine Auto-Injector:

  1. Position the auto-injector at a 90-degree angle to the outer thigh.
  2. Press firmly against the thigh until a “click” is heard.
  3. Hold for 10 seconds before removing.
  4. Massage the injection site to promote absorption.
  5. Monitor for improvement—if symptoms persist, a second dose may be required after five minutes.

When Can an OFA Level 1 Attendant Administer Epinephrine?

  • If the worker carries an EpiPen but is unable to self-administer.
  • If the worker is unconscious and showing signs of anaphylaxis.
  • If anaphylaxis is suspected, and there are no contraindications.

Additional First Aid Measures

  • Position the worker:
    • If they are having difficulty breathing, allow them to sit upright.
    • If unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position.
  • Monitor the worker’s condition closely.
  • Keep them calm to prevent further distress.
  • Do NOT give food or drink.
  • Provide oxygen (if trained and available).

Ongoing Assessment While Waiting for EMS

  • Reassess ABCs every 5 minutes until EMS arrives.
  • Monitor for shock symptoms, including loss of consciousness.
  • If breathing stops, begin CPR immediately.
  • Relay all details to paramedics, including the time epinephrine was administered.

First Aid Documentation

  • Complete a first aid record detailing:
    • Symptoms and response
    • Epinephrine administration time
    • Any changes in the worker’s condition

Key Takeaways

  • Act quickly—anaphylaxis can become fatal within minutes.
  • Ensure safety—remove the allergen if possible.
  • Call 911 immediately—this is a medical emergency.
  • Administer epinephrine as soon as symptoms appear.
  • Monitor the worker’s airway, breathing, and circulation while waiting for EMS.
  • Complete first aid documentation and report the incident properly.

By following these WorkSafeBC-compliant first aid procedures, OFA Level 1 and Basic First Aid attendants can effectively respond to anaphylactic emergencies, improving the worker’s survival chances.

For comprehensive training on handling breathing emergencies, anaphylaxis, and workplace first aid, enroll in a first aid course in Vancouver through Fundamental First Aid.

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