Updated Instructions for the use of Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

2016 saw changes to the labeling for epinephrine auto-injectors to help patients and caregivers use the medication appropriately in the event of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This change applies to adults and children using the medication. Previous instructions for the use of the epinephrine auto-injectors advised to hold the needle in place for ten seconds. The new labeling now advises that three seconds is enough time to keep the auto-injector in the outer thigh. Click here to read more about this change and detailed instructions.

Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Bans Powdered Gloves

The FDA published a final rule on December 19, 2016, banning powdered glove use. This ban goes into effect on January 28, 2017, and applies to powdered medical examination gloves and surgical gloves, and absorbable powder for lubricating a surgeon’s glove. The FDA’s position is that such items pose an“unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury to individuals exposed to the powdered gloves.” The risks to patients as well as health care providers (when internal body tissue is exposed to the powder) include severe airway inflammation and hypersensitivity reactions. The FDA further claims that “Powder particles may also trigger the body’s immune response, causing tissue to form around the particles (granulomas) or scar tissue formation (adhesions).” Refer to the final rule for detailed information about the dangers.

There are other medical exam gloves available without powder (and without latex), that offer the same level of protection, dexterity, and performance without posing risks. Be sure to replace any powdered medical exam gloves in your first aid kit.

High Quality / Low Cost AED Training Devices Available

Have you been searching for AED training devices that can be used for adult and child manikins without breaking your bank account? Look no further than Practi-Trainer Essentials, manufactured by WNL Products. This trainer incredibly affordable at under $70.00, and comes with everything you need to provide excellent quality training. You can buy the four pack of training devices and save even more! We have been using these for years, enabling our course participants to get quality skill practice time 1:1 or in small groups, and they have been a huge success. They are up-to-date with the most current ILCOR Guidelines, are bilingual, have a metronome, and excellent voice quality. The electrode pads include adult and pediatric sets, and replacement pads are very reasonable. Click here to view the products and learn more.