D2.338 - Gaps in Adrenaline Autoinjector Education Among Patients at Risk of Anaphylaxis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Intramuscular adrenaline is the first-line, life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis and should be administered immediately via an autoinjector according to international guidelines. Despite clear recommendations, delayed or inappropriate use remains frequent in real-world settings, suggesting persistent gaps in patient education and training.

Aim: To identify deficiencies in education regarding adrenaline self-administration among individuals at risk of anaphylaxis.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) questionnaire. The study included 53 adults/adolescents and 79 parents of children with a history of anaphylaxis or considered at high risk. The questionnaire assessed access to adrenaline, sources of education, frequency of refresher training, and adherence to carrying autoinjectors.

Adrenaline was administered during at least one anaphylactic episode in 72.9% of adults/adolescents and in 59.6% of pediatric patients. Access to adrenaline was high (92.3% vs 100%, respectively). Mainly allergists served as the primary educators (77.8% vs 73%, respectively). Only 16% of respondents reported receiving annual refresher training, with a marked disparity between adults/adolescents (37.8%) and parents of children (2.7%). Nearly half of participants (44.5%) had not received any refresher training after the initial session (24.4% vs 56.8%, respectively, p<0.001). Over half of respondents (52.9%) believed training should be repeated annually. Only 67.5% consistently carried their adrenaline.

While access to adrenaline is generally adequate, sustained and structured education remains insufficient, particularly among parents of pediatric patients. Implementation of mandatory, competency-based annual refresher training integrated into routine care pathways is essential to improve real-world anaphylaxis management.