Response Guide
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Anaphylaxis is a fast-moving, multi-system allergic reaction. A medical emergency is defined by the appearance of any symptoms across the following categories following suspected nut exposure. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen — initiate the protocol immediately.
- Use index and middle fingers — never your thumb.
- Feel the radial pulse (inside wrist) or carotid pulse (side of neck).
- Normal resting heart rate for a 12-year-old: 60–100 bpm.
- A "thready," light, or faster-than-100 bpm pulse is a critical warning sign.
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Tuikilakila carries the primary tools required to reverse anaphylaxis within her personal belongings. Speed is the most critical factor in a successful outcome.
Tuikilakila carries two 0.3mg EpiPen Adrenaline Auto-Injectors at all times. Having two pens is vital in case the first dose is insufficient or the reaction is prolonged.
The injectors are kept in her school bag. Go directly to the bag as your first point of retrieval in any emergency situation.
You must locate the red waist pouch inside her bag. This is the designated container for her life-saving medication. Knowing the exact colour eliminates confusion and reduces response time.
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The EpiPen is designed for rapid use, even through clothing. Follow these mechanical steps precisely and without hesitation.
Grip the device firmly in your dominant hand, forming a fist around it with the orange tip pointing downward.
Pull the blue safety cap straight up and off. Do not bend or twist it.
Swing and push the orange tip firmly into the outer thigh until a click is heard or felt. The injection must be delivered into the outer thigh only — the optimal site for rapid absorption.
Hold the device firmly in place for a full 3 seconds. Count aloud if necessary: "one, two, three."
Remove the device from the thigh. The medication has been delivered. Immediately move to Step 4 — call 999.
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Once the first injection is complete, call 999 immediately and manage Tuikilakila's physical position based on her current state.
When calling 999, state clearly: "This is a life-threatening emergency. A 12-year-old female is experiencing anaphylaxis. One 0.3mg dose of adrenaline was administered at [state exact time]."
Position her flat on her back with legs elevated to manage blood pressure and support circulation.
Position her seated upright to help open the airways and reduce respiratory effort.
Place her in the recovery position (on her side) and consult 999 dispatch immediately for further guidance.
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The 5–15 minute window following the first injection is critical. You must remain with Tuikilakila and provide continuous, focused observation.
Closely observe respiratory effort and rate. Note any changes in wheezing or difficulty breathing.
Continuously check her level of awareness and responsiveness. Speak to her and watch for a reply.
Note whether symptoms are improving, staying the same, or worsening. Report findings to 999 if condition changes.
If condition does not improve or worsens within 5–15 minutes, administer the second 0.3mg EpiPen using the exact same steps into the outer thigh.
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Do not wait for multiple symptoms or for symptoms to worsen. The appearance of any single symptom from the diagnostic table following suspected nut exposure is sufficient to begin the protocol.
Stay on the line with the 999 dispatcher after your initial call. They can provide real-time guidance, including instructions on the second dose and patient positioning.
Recording the precise time of each dose is essential. This information must be communicated to 999 and to arriving paramedics to guide further treatment decisions.
Stay with Tuikilakila at all times until professional medical help arrives and formally takes over her care. Do not leave her alone for any reason.
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In a high-stress emergency, certain mistakes can compromise Tuikilakila's safety. Knowing these in advance helps ensure a fast and effective response.
Delaying action because symptoms seem mild can cost critical time. Avoid these mistakes:
- Waiting for more than one symptom before acting
- Using your thumb to check the pulse
- Dismissing symptoms as a minor allergic reaction
- Assuming she will improve without the EpiPen
Incorrect EpiPen technique reduces medication effectiveness. Prevent these errors:
- Injecting into any site other than the outer thigh
- Removing the device before 3 seconds have elapsed
- Pulling the blue safety cap at an angle rather than straight up
- Failing to administer the second dose if needed within 5–15 minutes
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The right information at the right moment saves lives. Keep these essential details recalled and ready.
Tuikilakila carries two auto-injectors. Both are available for use if required during a single episode.
The medication is always stored in a distinctively coloured red waist pouch inside her school bag for rapid identification.
Call 999 immediately after the first dose. State the patient's age, the diagnosis, and the exact time of administration.
After each dose, observe closely for 5–15 minutes. Administer the second dose if there is no improvement or if symptoms worsen.
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Any symptom after nut exposure is enough. Do not hesitate. Speed is the single most important factor in a successful outcome.
Locate the red waist pouch, remove the blue cap, push the orange tip firmly into the outer thigh, and hold for 3 full seconds.
Call emergency services, position Tuikilakila correctly, observe continuously, administer the second dose if needed, and never leave her side until help arrives.
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