New action plans for the management of anaphylaxis

The Australasian Society for Clinical Immunology and Allergy has developed new anaphylaxis action plans intended for use across Australasia. These educational tools aim to give patients and carers easily accessible information about key steps in the emergency treatment of acute allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. This article outlines the rationale for these plans, introduces two new action plans and key practice points to consider when providing these plans. Action plans are primarily an educational tool for patients considered to be at risk of anaphylaxis. They also function in a similar fashion to a doctor's letter, providing written information that patients and parents can give to child care centres, schools and employers to assist in the provision of appropriate care.