Allergy shots at camp, should we give them?

[kdmcook]

Or send them out?

[nightingale, RN]

At the camp I worked at, we would take them to the Dr. for an Office Visit. I am comfortable giving shots, so it could have gone either way as long as we have the Staff Dr. write and order, just like when you are working in a Clinic or Hospital.

[carachel2]

OK, I admittedly don't know much about allergy shots. Are we talking about the types of shots that sensitive the patient with the hope that over time they will stop having a systemic reaction ?

If that is what we are talking about, I would say NO unless you have oxygen, suction and a crash cart.

[Nurse Ratched, RN]

If that is what we are talking about, I would say NO unless you have oxygen, suction and a crash cart.

Agreed with that, unless you're in a position to deal with a potential anaphylactic rx.

[carrigaline]

Honestly even at the Dr office they will not give allergy shots unless there is a doctor in the office d/t the liability and risks with allergy shots so I would say NO.. is it worth the risk to and your camper?

[edgwow]

You must be able to deal witha reaction if 1 occurs. Most camps are not equipped with oxygen and epipens, and have a lomger wait time for EMS. I would say , SORRY, I am not eqiped if there is an emergency.

[bollweevil]

Under no circumstances should these shots ever be given without a physician and emergency equipment readily available. I once saw a nurse give an allergy shot at camp. An hour later, the patient was holding her throat, indicting she could not breathe. It was really terrifying. Thank God, we had a doctor and Benadryl injectable right there, along with Epinephrine, O2, etc. The person responded positively, quickly to Epi and was fine but what if she had not?

[greengrass]

Where I worked I was told no Dr. No injections.

[jeepgirl, LPN, NP]

No way! Allergy injections should only be given with a physician on site with trained advanced life support staff AND crash equipement.