Nurses should be aware of a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alert regarding device failures or user errors in the administration of EpiPen 0.3 mg and EpiPen Jr 0.15 mg autoinjectors and their generic versions. EpiPens are used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including those that are life-threatening (such as anaphylaxis). Specifically, the manufacturers (Pfizer and Mylan) warn of premature activation of the device and the inability to remove the device from the carrier tube, among other user errors, all of which can decrease the administered dose.

Nurses should review the proper procedure for EpiPen administration with patients and their families or caregivers to help ensure that the correct dosage is received.

To read the FDA alert, go to http://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-alerts-patients-and-he. To read the "Dear Healthcare Provider" letter, which includes user errors and correct administration instructions, go to http://www.fda.gov/media/136389/download.