ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Fifty-fifth Legislature

First Regular Session

 

HB 2615: epinephrine injections; first responders immunity

Sponsor:  Representative Osborne, LD 13

Committee on Health & Human Services

Overview

Permits a first responder to administer an epinephrine injection to a person believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis and provides immunity from professional liability and criminal prosecution.

History

Current statute states that a person may administer epinephrine to another person who is suffering from a severe allergic reaction given the person is acting in good faith, without compensation and a health professional qualified to administer epinephrine is not immediately available. A person who administers epinephrine is not subject to civil liability for any injury that results from the act unless the person acts with gross negligence, willful misconduct or intentional wrongdoing (A.R.S § 36-2226).

Provisions

1.   ☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal NoteAllows a first responder who is trained in administering epinephrine injections to administer an epinephrine injection to a person believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis pursuant to a standing order issued by any of the following:

a)   A licensed physician;

b)   A licensed naturopathic physician;

c)   A licensed physician assistant; or

d)   A licensed nurse practitioner. (Sec. 1)

2.   Provides licensed physicians, naturopathic physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and first responders with immunity from professional liability and criminal prosecution. (Sec. 1)

3.   Specifies that the above-mentioned provisions do not create a duty to act or standard of care for a first responder to administer an epinephrine injection. (Sec. 1).

4.   Defines ambulance attendee as either of the following:

a)   An emergency medical technician, an advanced emergency medical technician and emergency medical technician I-99 or a paramedic whose primary responsibility is the care of patients in an ambulance; or

b)   An emergency medical responder who is employed by the ambulance service and whose primary responsibility is the driving of an ambulance. (Sec. 1)

5.   Defines first responder as a law enforcement officer, firefighter or ambulance attendant. (Sec. 1)

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9.                     HB 2615

10.  Initials EB/SF        Page 0 Health & Human Services

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