KINGSTON, R.I.—Oct. 25, 2023—EpiPens—the lifesaving, pre-filled automatic injection devices that administer epinephrine to help reverse an allergic reaction—are now available in the Ram’s Den, Butterfield, and Mainfare dining halls, with more on order for Brookside Bistro. The pens are kept in an “Emergency Box” along with the automated external defibrillators (AEDs) that are currently located in all URI dining halls.

Although severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can happen anywhere, the risk is higher anywhere food is being served. In busy dining halls there are a variety of foods and ingredients often coupled with distraction and high foot traffic, making a quick response all the more important. 

The initiative is the result of a collaborative effort involving several URI departments, including dining services, emergency medical services, health services/health promotion and emergency management.

URI food service staff have received training in both the use of AEDs as well as the EpiPens from Jennifer Strollo, Ph.D., R.N., coordinator of nursing at URI Health Services. URI Emergency Management also does frequent checks on emergency equipment across the University to ensure equipment integrity.  

“This extra layer of protection is important to be able to provide, but you never know when an emergency might occur,” said Jennifer Hodshon, M.P.H., director of URI Health Services, as she stressed the importance of students carrying their own auto-injector. “If prescribed, students should always carry their own EpiPen and check that the medication is not expired—just in case it needs to be used.”