Using Auto-Injectors Outside Work

The UK Resuscitation Council and Health & Safety Executive (HSE) provide guidance on administering adrenaline auto-injectors:

• Legal Permission: There are no legal restrictions against administering someone else’s adrenaline auto-injector in an emergency. The priority is to assist in life-threatening situations.
• Medicines Act Exemption: The Medicines Act includes exemptions allowing trained individuals to administer adrenaline in emergencies, even if it is not prescribed for that specific individual.
• Competency Requirement: First aid responders must be competent in recognising anaphylactic reactions and using auto-injectors. They should adhere to employer and training organisation guidelines.

Specific Guidelines for Nurses

Nurses in acute hospital settings have specific considerations:

• Legal Authority: Nurses can administer adrenaline auto-injectors outside hospital settings in emergencies, provided they are competent and adhere to Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) standards.
• Training and Standards: Nurses must maintain competence in recognising anaphylactic reactions and using auto-injectors as per NMC guidelines.

Employer and Trust Responsibilities

It is advisable for trusts and employers to:

• Include Provision: Ensure that policies and guidelines on the use of auto-injectors are clear and included in first aid and anaphylaxis protocols.
• Seek Clarification: If unsure about protocols or guidelines, employees should consult their managers promptly to avoid complications.