FINAL BILL REPORT

                 SHB 1992

                         C 337 L 99

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Allowing a certified emergency medical technician to administer epinephrine.

Sponsors:  By House Committee on Health Care (Originally sponsored by Representatives Ballasiotes, Schual‑Berke and Rockefeller).

House Committee on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term 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.  A reaction may cause increased irritability, dyspnea, or cyanosis.  In some cases it can result in convulsions, unconsciousness, and even death.

Epinephrine is used to treat anaphylactic reactions.  Those with severe allergies that could result in an anaphylactic reaction may receive a prescription to administer a dose of epinephrine through the use of an autoinjector device.  Paramedics and intermediate life support technicians may administer epinephrine.  Emergency medical technicians, however, may only administer epinephrine to patients who have a prescription for epinephrine for allergic reactions.

Summary:

Beginning January 1, 2000, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are required to carry epinephrine and are authorized to administer it upon the request of the patient or to other authorized individuals under the age of 18, with specifications.   Emergency care personnel referred to as first responders are not authorized to administer epinephrine.  These provisions expire on December 31, 2001.

The Department of Health (DOH) in cooperation with the House of Representatives Health Care Committee is required to review the use of epinephrine for anaphylaxis by EMTs and determine the number of incidents of anaphylaxis statewide, the training costs associated with establishing specialized training for EMTs to carry and administer epinephrine, and an assessment of the potential risks associated with the use of epinephrine. 

The DOH is allowed to establish a pilot program to determine the effectiveness of training EMTs to carry and administer epinephrine to persons under the age of 30.  The DOH is allowed to establish a volunteer  advisory committee to assist with the development and review of the pilot program.

Votes on Final Passage:

House970

Senate460(Senate amended)

House951(House concurred)

Effective:May 14, 1999

January 1, 2000 (Section 4)