Knowledge about anaphylaxis and using auto-injectable adrenaline among physicians

Background: Physicians must possess knowledge of optimal acute management of anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions. Early and appropriate therapy is important. Recurrences may be prevented with education of patients, and using auto-injectable adrenaline may be life-saving. The purpose of the study was to assess physicians knowledge and attitude about these life-threatening events. Methods: A total number of randomly selected 93 physicians were asked to fulfill a questionnaire. A scenario about a patient developing life-threatening symptoms after receiving naproxen sodium tablet was described. The questionnaire consisted of basic treatment procedures about anaphylaxis and about the usage of auto-injectable adrenaline. Results: Only 50.5% of the physicians in our study answered that they would treat their patients with adrenaline in the case of anaphylaxis. Further evaluation revealed that only 23 of the 93 physicians (24.7%) knew the correct dose, correct form and the correct administration route. 89.2% of physicians did not know how to use an adrenaline auto-injector and 95.7% did never prescribe this device. Conclusion: Physicians knowledge about anaphylaxis/anaphylactic reactions in Turkey is not sufficient. Regular training courses should be advised