Brief Description: Regarding the administration of epinephrine by emergency medical technicians.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Finkbeiner, Thibaudeau, Keiser, McAuliffe and Kohl-Welles).

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care
House Committee on Health Care

Background: Anaphylaxis is an allergic hypersensitivity reaction of the body to a foreign protein or drug. Anaphylaxis can be caused by drugs, insect stings, foods, and inhalants. In some cases it can result in convulsions, unconsciousness, and even death. Epinephrine is used to treat anaphylactic reactions.

In 1999, the Legislature passed legislation requiring emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to carry epinephrine and authorizing EMTs to administer it to patients of any age upon evidence of a prescription. EMTs were also authorized to administer epinephrine to minors upon the request of the patient or his or her parent or guardian, or at the request of an authorized individual. In 2001, the expiration date on the legislation was removed.

Summary: This bill authorizes an emergency medical technician to administer epinephrine.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate      47   0
House      94   0   (House amended)
Senate            (Senate refused to concur)
House      98   0   (House receded)

Effective: July 24, 2005