D1.270 - Anaphylaxis and Adrenaline: Knowledge gaps with critical consequences

Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, requires prompt recognition and management, particularly the correct administration of adrenaline. This study investigates the knowledge and practices regarding adrenaline administration among medical and nursing staff in a tertiary hospital in Dublin, Ireland.

Anonymous paper based questionnaire. Initial data collection in 2018 and subsequently repeated.

Preliminary results from a clinical audit evaluating the presence and accessibility of adrenaline (1 mg/ml, 1:1,000) in cardiac arrest trolleys across inpatient wards and assessed the knowledge of healthcare staff, on recognising and managing anaphylaxis. Findings revealed that all wards had adrenaline in the correct location, but gaps in knowledge for correct administration were revealed. While the majority of participants (88%, 43/49) correctly identified intramuscular (IM) administration as the first-line route during anaphylaxis, only 16% (8/49) specified both the correct dose and concentration (500 mcg, 1:1,000) of initial anaphylaxis treatment in the hospital setting. Moreover, only 60% (29/49) correctly identified the location of adrenaline in the emergency trolley.

This study highlights the need for targeted education and training to enhance the competency of healthcare professionals in managing anaphylaxis. Addressing these gaps is critical to preventing adverse events associated with incorrect adrenaline administration