Improving medical workforce knowledge of adrenaline (epinephrine) administration in treatment of anaphylaxis in adults

Acute Med. 2021;20(2):110-115.

Abstract

Aim: To compare results of repeated surveys (2010, 2015 and 2017) regarding the knowledge of the medical workforce potentially involved in adrenaline administration for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis in adults.

Methods: Convenience samples of medical (and advanced nursing) staff were surveyed on three separate occasions (2010, 2015 and 2017). Several educational methods were used to increase awareness of the specific administration of adrenaline.

Results: Overall, knowledge of the medical workforce regarding correct first dose adrenaline administration improved from 15% in 2010 to 49% in 2015 and finally 63% in 2017.

Conclusion: This survey comparison shows knowledge of the medical workforce regarding adrenaline administration for treatment of anaphylaxis in adults can be significantly improved by employing a variety of educational methods.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anaphylaxis* / drug therapy
  • Epinephrine*
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Workforce

Substances

  • Epinephrine