Allergy can happen anywhere.
Recognize and Respond to Anaphylaxis
Allergy Emergencies
Delayed administration of epinephrine can be deadly.
Anaphylaxis can strike fast, and it can be life-threatening.
Triggered by allergens like certain foods, medications, or insect stings, anaphylaxis requires immediate action. The most effective treatment? Epinephrine — fast and correctly given.
Recognizing the signs and knowing when to act can save a life. With the right training, you could be the difference in a medical emergency.
Code Ana equips you with that training, so you’re ready when it matters most.
How To Manage
Anaphylaxis

Activate your emergency response protocols!
This should include calling 911
and getting epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Move the person to a safe space
and have them lay down.

Administer epinephrine in the outer thigh.
Elevate the person's leg if possible.

Have the person go to the emergency room
via EMS for continued medical care!
Recognize
How can you recognize a severe allergic reaction?
Anaphylaxis doesn’t look the same for everyone — symptoms can vary based on the person and the trigger. However, there are three recognized clinical definitions used to identify anaphylaxis during diagnosis and treatment. In cases of food allergy, anaphylaxis requires direct exposure through ingestion of the allergen.
Code Ana’s anaphylaxis training helps you understand these definitions, recognize early warning signs, and respond appropriately in real-world situations.

What risk factors can increase the chances of a severe reaction?
Exercise
Exercise can exacerbate severe allergic reactions and can increase the chances of anaphylaxis in those with allergy.
History of Anaphylaxis
If a child has previously had an anaphylaxis emergency before, the chance that they will have another one is likely.
Respond
Do you have what you need to respond effectively?
Every second counts during anaphylaxis so prompt recognition and effectively responses are essential for good outcomes. During an emergency is not the time to see what you will do and if your space is prepared.
Practiced Emergency Response Plan
Ask yourself – How do I bring a school nurse or other trained staff to my location during a medical emergency?
If you don’t know the answer – you need to update and practice your medical emergency protocol.
Code Ana’s free program, Med-E Ready, can help!
Trained Staff
Anaphylaxis looks different every time. You and those around you should know what it can look like in anyone – not just those with documented allergy.
Don’t know where to start? Code Ana has free trainings to kick start your education journey.
Already know the basics? Get certified with our low cost training program.
Stock Epinephrine
Most states allow (some even require) K-12 schools to have stock epinephrine and staff trained to use it on campuses. Many states allow other spaces, like early childcare centers, youth organizations, restaurants, and more to have it on hand as well. Check out our map to find out about your state!
Need help getting it? Let us know on our contact page!
Find Resources Now!
Do you know your state's law and regulations around stock epinephrine?
- No Stock Epinephrine Legislation
- Only School Epinephrine Laws
- School, Childcare Center, and Non-School Entity Epinephrine Laws
- School & Non-School Entity Laws
- Individual Epinephrine Law
- School & Childcare Center Epinephrine Laws
- School & Individual Epinephrine Laws
Watch some of our online educational videos below to start your education journey!
Get Prepared For All Emergencies
Feel equipped for this emergency? Take the steps to get prepared for another one.