In preparation for influenza season, pharmacy teams should verify their anaphylaxis kit contain formulations that are appropriate for both pediatric and adult populations if they are providing injections to both groups. Pharmacies may choose to have epinephrine autoinjectors and/or vials. In the case of autoinjectors, pharmacy practice consultants have noticed that some pharmacies do not have autoinjectors to meet all age and weight requirements.
Pharmacies must be equipped with a range of dosing alternatives for various age and weight requirements. Please be aware there have been updates to the Government of Canada’s Canadian Immunization Guide about epinephrine dosing and recommended kit supplies. Expiry dates for epinephrine must be checked and, where needed, replaced if expired product is found.
Standard 17 of the Standards of Practice for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians (SPPPT) requires a pharmacist who administers a drug, blood product, or vaccine to have proper regard for the interests of the patient and take all steps necessary to ensure that the drug, blood product, or vaccine is administered safely. In addition, Standard 5 of the Standards for the Operation of Licensed Pharmacies (SOLP) requires that a licensee must ensure the drug supply in the licensed pharmacy is managed so as to protect the integrity, quality and safety of drugs, health care products, aids, and devices.
Please review the update to the Canadian Immunization Guide in preparation for influenza season, verify dosing requirements, and ensure anaphylaxis kits are properly stocked.
