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Anaphylaxis Checklist - Young Adults (Transitioning from Paediatric to Adult Care)

This document has been developed by ASCIA, the peak professional body of clinical immunology/allergy specialists in Australia and New Zealand. ASCIA information is based on published literature and expert review, is not influenced by commercial organisations and is not intended to replace medical advice. For patient or carer support contact Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia or Allergy New Zealand.

Understanding your allergies and learning how to look after your health independently makes the transition from paediatric to adult medical care easier.

pdfASCIA PC Checklist Anaphylaxis Young Adults 202470.88 KB

ASCIA PC Checklist Anaphylaxis Young Adults 2024It is important for you to:

  • Have a GP and clinical immunology/allergy specialist whom you see regularly.
  • Attend appointments with your GP or clinical immunology/allergy specialist without your parents.
  • Provide information to your GP and clinical immunology/allergy specialist and ask questions of them. You could take notes to remind you of what to ask.
  • Before you leave your appointment ensure your GP or clinical immunology/allergy specialist has provided:
    - Prescription for adrenaline (epinephrine) injector/s (EpiPen® or Anapen®).
    - Education on how to use your adrenaline injector using a trainer device.
    - ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis (red) and Travel Plan.
    - Referral for a clinical immunology/allergy specialist (if required).
    - Education on how to avoid known allergens.
    - Information on what to do should you have an allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis.
    - Advice on how to manage your asthma (if relevant).
  • See your clinical immunology/allergy specialist to review your allergies every two to three years (or as requested by your specialist). This helps maintain good management of your allergies, and keeps you informed of current treatments and medications that are available to help you manage your allergies.
  • Discuss allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) with your clinical immunology/allergy specialist if you have severe insect allergy, allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or asthma.
  • Have your own Medicare card (Australia).
  • Make an appointment to see your clinical immunology/allergy specialist after you had an allergic reaction to a previously confirmed or new allergen, even if you are not due for an appointment.

Emergency treatment

  • ALWAYS have your adrenaline injector and ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis with you.
  • Know when and how to use your adrenaline injector and be prepared to use it.

  • Check and note the expiry date of your adrenaline injector. 
  • Educate those around you, including friends, about your allergies and how to use your adrenaline injector.

More information

 

© ASCIA 2024

Content updated March 2024

For more information go to www.allergy.org.au/patients/about-allergy

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