A quick-thinking pharmacist who saved the life of a young woman after she suffered anaphylactic shock on Grafton Street has been hailed for her actions.
Sarah Chambers, of Hickey’s Pharmacy, administered two life-saving adrenaline injections to a 17-year-old last Tuesday week.
The young woman had suffered an allergic reaction, understood to have been related to a chocolate drink she had bought earlier.
The woman, who has a severe nut allergy, rang her father to tell him she was feeling unwell. He immediately advised her to go to her nearest pharmacy, where pharmacist Sarah Chambers met her and evaluated her condition.
Sarah recalled: “The patient explained that the last time she had an allergic reaction to nuts was when she was aged four.
“She displayed characteristic symptoms of anaphylactic shock including a rash and swollen lips and so we immediately called an ambulance. I then administered two adrenaline pens and stayed with her to monitor her condition until the ambulance arrived.”
The young woman was rushed to the Emergency Department of St James’s Hospital by ambulance. She was later discharged and has made a full recovery.
The patient has asked not to be identified although she and her family have expressed their strong appreciation to Ms Chambers and Hickey’s.
The Epi-pen is designed for anaphylactic emergencies and provides an immediate dose of adrenaline. It can be administered in emergency situations by trained pharmacists.
The ability to administer the Epipen in first response situations was brought into legal effect by the Minister for Health in October 2015.
Sarah explained: “Adrenaline is a first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. It works by constricting the blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relaxes muscles in the lungs to reduce wheezing, improves breathing and stimulates the heart rate. It also works to reduce hives and swelling that may occur around the face and lips.”
Tom Concannon, Superintendent Pharmacist of Hickey’s, explained that the company had taken the decision to train all of their pharmacists to administer adrenaline and had specific protocols in place to deal with this type of emergency in their stores.
“We’re very proud of Sarah for her quick actions,” he said. “Acting quickly is crucial where anaphylaxis occurs. The emergency services must be called immediately on either 112 or 999 and adrenaline should be administered. We’re absolutely delighted that we were able to help this young woman and that she has made a speedy recovery.”
Episodes such as this one serve as an important reminder to those who suffer from severe allergies that they should carry two in-date adrenaline pens at all times and should be comfortable in knowing how to use them. Anyone who suspects they may be su ering from an allergy should consult a health professional such as a pharmacist or GP urgently.