The University Safety Committee discussed a proposal to implement a test program that would ensure EpiPens were available on all Epic Adventures events. New regulations for Washington state would allow first aid personnel (in this case the Epic Adventures leaders) to be trained to use EpiPens and would allow the first aid kits to be stocked with EpiPens.
Trent Lutey, who brought forward the discussion, had two experts present at the meeting to discuss the possible consequences. The biggest question from committee members was what happens if the EpiPen is administered when it isn’t needed. According to the experts, there are no adverse medical reactions if an EpiPen is used when it isn’t needed.
The committee voted unanimously in favor of the proposal.
If implementation with Epic Adventures is successful, the plan would eventually have EpiPens available in a few locations around campus and have them sent on any trips to remote locations.
The university will still need to figure out the logistics of an EpiPen program. Anyone who would need to administer the shot would be required to have some training. The questions of where the pens will be located outside Epic Adventures and who will be in charge of checking the pens to make sure they are still in the proper locations and haven’t expired need to be addressed.
