Dealing with severe allergic reaction

If the above happens, this is what you should do:

●● Do not move the customer, because this could make them worse.

●● Call 999 immediately and describe what is happening. explain that you think the customer may be having a serious allergic reaction or anaphylaxis (pronounced anna-fill-axis). It is important to mention the word anaphylaxis to ensure that the urgency of the situation is communicated and that appropriate medication will be available.

●● Ask the customer if they carry an adrenaline pen and, if necessary help them retrieve it. If a staff member or first aider is trained in administrating adrenaline and the customer is struggling to self-administer, then offer to assist them.

●● Send someone outside to wait for the ambulance while you stay with your customer until help arrives.

IMPORTANT: Warning signs
It is not always clear if someone is having an allergic reaction because other serious conditions can have similar symptoms. However, warning signs to look out for is if they are finding it hard to breathe, if their lips or mouth are swollen, or if they collapse.