When most people think of adrenaline, they think about car crashes, sky diving and bungee jumping. But what about an EpiPen?

An EpiPen, which stands for epinephrine autoinjector, is commonly used for allergic reactions. When someone takes an EpiPen, they are putting epinephrine, or adrenaline, into their bodies.

Using an EpiPen is as simple as taking it out of its case, removing the safety release, and pressing to the thigh for 10 seconds. EpiPens can be kept in the Nurse’s Office, but can be carried by the student as well.

Even though an EpiPen is easy to use, there are several policies and rules for using it. When an anaphylactic reaction, a severe allergic reaction, occurs, the EpiPen may be applied by the student.

However, in the case that a student has never had an allergic reaction, the nurse decides if an EpiPen should be used.

According to Rockwood policy, the nurse decides whether or not to use an EpiPen based on symptoms the student shows, such as hives, swelling or difficulty of breathing.

“If a school nurse suspected an anaphylactic reaction and was going to administer an EpiPen, the student would certainly be carefully assessed, including any history or current symptoms they could provide.” Amy Wehr, Supervisor of Wellness and Health Services said.

After using an EpiPen, a student is taken to the hospital, in case they need a second dose or more treatment.

If a student is ever given an EpiPen when it isn’t needed, there is no need to worry.

 “The good news is that other than the minor discomfort of an injection, there is no harm in unnecessarily giving someone epinephrine.” Wehr said.

Freshman Ny’Eilla Smith, who has a peanut allergy, is one of many students who has an EpiPen at school at all times.

“Last year, in eighth grade, the nurse recommended my mom get me an EpiPen.” Smith said. “I’m a little shocked that my mom actually got me one, but I was okay with the idea after a while.”

Since she’s gotten her EpiPen, she hasn’t had any allergic reactions.

The deicision of whether or not to use an EpiPen in an allergic is ultimately up to the nurse, but this doesn’t bother Smith.

“You never know if it’s a life or death situation or if it’s too severe or not.” Smith said.