Alright, so I had my first anaphylactic allergic reaction this morning to an unknown substance in the air I inhaled. This means I've got to have an epi pen handy now at all times in my first aid kit.
Which got me thinking, models, how many of you bring a small first aid kit just in case something happens?
And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
I bring a giant suitcase full of wardrobe, wigs, jewelry, hair stuff, props, etc. A bag full of makeup and hair stuff, and a small carry on size suitcase full of shoes.
If I'm shooting nude or if I know wardrobe etc will be provided I leave most of it in the car, but its still there if we have an idea and I need to run out and go get some jewelry or a wig or something.
I do have a first aid kit though. I have:
regular band aids and those blister band aids for when I've been in heels forever
roll on blister blocking cream (I've heard that makeup primer works for this too)
neosporin
alcohol wipes
liquid bandage
pepto and immodium
midol
benedryl
hydrocortizone cream
and candy in case my blood sugar starts dropping
I read a post on the MUA board about what they bring in their kits for emergencies and I added a ton of the same things to my own kit. It was probably one of the most useful threads I've seen on here!
ive always been surprised by how many traveling models dont have emergency kits
I bring bandaids, alcohol wipes, super glue, tummy medicine, headache medicine, eye drops, a protein bar, tweezers, allergy medicine, and a couple other things.
i also bring aswiss army knife which i smuggle everywhere because you never know when you'll need it
Jordan Bunniie wrote: I don't bring one, but maybe its not a bad idea to throw a few "just in case" items in my kit. . . you've got me thinking. I think its a good idea.
I'm glad. I always had one with little stuff, like bandages, a splint, motrin, an ace wrap, and an ice pack. But I think i'm going to start packing more, that way I don't put that burden on the photographer if i'm injured.
Samantha Emme wrote: And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
It depends on the medical condition. If a model told me she was allergic to a pet I might have it would affect my decision to work with her. I had a model tell me she had to stop periodically for a quick snack and I didn't consider that a problem. I think the most important thing is that the model disclose any potential problems in advance as opposed to letting the photographer know after the shoot has started.
I did a shoot a couple of years ago that was supposed to be lingerie with stiletto heels. After just a few minutes the model seemed to be rather wobbly and I thought she might fall over. When I asked her if she was OK she told me that she had MS and she had great difficulty standing in heels. In this case I think she should have alerted me to this before the shoot so I could come up with some alternative ideas for the shoot.
I bring a giant suitcase full of wardrobe, wigs, jewelry, hair stuff, props, etc. A bag full of makeup and hair stuff, and a small carry on size suitcase full of shoes.
If I'm shooting nude or if I know wardrobe etc will be provided I leave most of it in the car, but its still there if we have an idea and I need to run out and go get some jewelry or a wig or something.
I do have a first aid kit though. I have:
regular band aids and those blister band aids for when I've been in heels forever
roll on blister blocking cream (I've heard that makeup primer works for this too)
neosporin
alcohol wipes
liquid bandage
pepto and immodium
midol
benedryl
hydrocortizone cream
and candy in case my blood sugar starts dropping
I read a post on the MUA board about what they bring in their kits for emergencies and I added a ton of the same things to my own kit. It was probably one of the most useful threads I've seen on here!
Lol you got me there! I should have made it more specific to mean just the med kit. But i think i will copy some off that list there, like the benedryl and candy.
orias wrote: ive always been surprised by how many traveling models dont have emergency kits
I bring bandaids, alcohol wipes, super glue, tummy medicine, headache medicine, eye drops, a protein bar, tweezers, allergy medicine, and a couple other things.
i also bring aswiss army knife which i smuggle everywhere because you never know when you'll need it
I was wondering that myself. I got to thinking, what would happen if I got injured or something happened? There'd be some poor photographer confused as all hell most likely, trying to care for a stranger. I think I might put an emergency contact card too.
As for the swiss knife, good idea! Could be handy with other things too and makes sense.
It depends on the medical condition. If a model told me she was allergic to a pet I might have it would affect my decision to work with her. I had a model tell me she had to stop periodically for a quick snack and I didn't consider that a problem. I think the most important thing is that the model disclose any potential problems in advance as opposed to letting the photographer know after the shoot has started.
I did a shoot a couple of years ago that was supposed to be lingerie with stiletto heels. After just a few minutes the model seemed to be rather wobbly and I thought she might fall over. When I asked her if she was OK she told me that she had MS and she had great difficulty standing in heels. In this case I think she should have alerted me to this before the shoot so I could come up with some alternative ideas for the shoot.
That makes sense, and the model should've mentioned that to you. I think I'll put that in the info I tell the photographer from now on, especially since mine is now serious, and an unknown allergen. Thank you for your input
I've always had an emergency kit of the most basic kind: Tylenol, bandaids, alcohol wipes and tampex or pads. One weekend I had two models who got their periods at the most inopportune times. But I never before considered an epi pen, thanks.
A models preexisting medical conditions will not affect my choice in working with them.
However it would be really smart of the model to tell me about known allergies before the shoot is booked. I once worked with a model in a field of wildflowers only to have her freak out when a bee suddenly appeared. Turned out she was very allergic to bee stings.
Samantha Emme wrote: And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
As long as the model is up-front about the condition, it doesn't diminish my willingness one bit. It might even make me more interested in shooting with her, since she's working through her medical issues and showing a stronger work ethic in doing so.
But I'd be extremely pissed if on the shoot the model experienced some medical issue she hadn't told me about in advance.
Michael Vasquez Photo wrote: I've always had an emergency kit of the most basic kind: Tylenol, bandaids, alcohol wipes and tampex or pads. One weekend I had two models who got their periods at the most inopportune times. But I never before considered an epi pen, thanks.
The tampons are definitely a good thing to have, and I'm impressed you went the extra mile to do that for your models.
Fred Gerhart wrote: A models preexisting medical conditions will not affect my choice in working with them.
However it would be really smart of the model to tell me about known allergies before the shoot is booked. I once worked with a model in a field of wildflowers only to have her freak out when a bee suddenly appeared. Turned out she was very allergic to bee stings.
Woah and she didn't even have anything for it? Wow. I decided to put the notice in my profile for that just cause that's what I'm afraid of happening.
I was wondering that myself. I got to thinking, what would happen if I got injured or something happened? There'd be some poor photographer confused as all hell most likely, trying to care for a stranger. I think I might put an emergency contact card too.
As for the swiss knife, good idea! Could be handy with other things too and makes sense.
Oh I never thought to include an emergency contact card! Definitely a must!
Samantha Emme wrote: And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
No, as long as a medical condition won't make the shoot unsafe or problematic (allergic to cats or dogs needing to pose with cats or dogs, etc) I would not care.
If I see you with an epi pen, I'd want to know before the shoot why you need to, and then when I saw you with one, I'd feel more comfortable, not less.
I don't know if the site has a "check list" in a FAQ section for models or anything, but I think a first aid kit is probably a good idea for both models and photographers.
Now I should probably make a first aid kit for myself. I have plenty of those things laying around already, like scissors and some gauze and anti bacterial ointment, since I'm in the Fetish/Alt area of modeling, but I think making a First Aid kid and not a medical play kit might be in order.
Especially since I'm afraid of having allergic reactions, and preventative care is important to me. I think it should be important to everyone. So this is a really great topic and a good reminder for amateur models!
Samantha Emme wrote: Alright, so I had my first anaphylactic allergic reaction this morning to an unknown substance in the air I inhaled. This means I've got to have an epi pen handy now at all times in my first aid kit.
Which got me thinking, models, how many of you bring a small first aid kit just in case something happens?
And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
I always thought it was so wise to have little things...tape, band aids, antiseptic... However an epi pen is wickedly smart!!
Might be a good idea to find a good first aid kit and check the expiration of the epi pens to replace that when it expires.
Whether I'm modeling or doing makeup I always have a first aid kit with me, even if I don't need it, someone else might.
One of my favorite lines I ever got was at the reception for a wedding when I was assisting MUA, one of the bridesmaids (who I had earlier fashioned-taped and sewn into her dress that was ill-fitted to her) sidled on up to me and quietly said, "Since you seem to have everything ever, do you have anything for a headache?" (My response was, "Aleve, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, or Alka Seltzer? I also have sudafed if it's sinus-related." She burst out laughing.)
Samantha Emme wrote: And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
I carry a med BoB with basic aid and "survival" stuff (solar blanket, matches etc) ...
and epi pens do not bother me (had to carry them in the military), neither does diabetes kits ...
Jordan Bunniie wrote: I don't bring one, but maybe its not a bad idea to throw a few "just in case" items in my kit. . . you've got me thinking. I think its a good idea.
Seriously. Reading this thread now I kind of feel like a dipshit for not bringing one with me everywhere.
Azimuth Arts
Posts: 1,133
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Michael Vasquez Photo wrote: I've always had an emergency kit of the most basic kind: Tylenol, bandaids, alcohol wipes and tampex or pads. One weekend I had two llamas who got their periods at the most inopportune times. But I never before considered an epi pen, thanks.
Not sure about your location but an epi pen requires a prescription in Canada. They are also not cheap and have a shelf life of two years or less (I just got my first and it expires in mid 2014).
I'd also be concerned about the liability of injecting an epi pen into someone else if it was not their own. If they had an adverse reaction to it you could end up in a law suit. I think it's one thing to have a few Tylenol or Advil around the shoot in case a llama asks for one, but I'd personally stay away from administering any prescription medication that was not their own.
OP, if you have allergies with the possibility of anaphylaxis I suggest you first confirm what it is you are allergic to. If it's something possibly present in most locations (e.g. dust of some types, or pollen) you should inform all photographers and let them know you will have the epi pen, plus show it to them when you arrive in case you need them to get it for you if you have an attack. If its an allergy you are less likely to come across during a shoot you probably don't need to inform the photographer in advance. Though if it is a food allergy make sure the team is aware to avoid the application of any makeup, clothing or food served which may contain an allergen.
Having a well rounded first aid kit is never a bad idea. Just be sure that it is kept up to date and any items used are replaced and that ointments (anti-bacterial etc.) are kept fresh and replaced when they expire.
photodorset
Posts: 845
Bournemouth, England, United Kingdom
If you carry an epi pen do you show the photographer how to use it and make sure he/she knows where it is?
In the UK first aid kits generally do not contain any medication so some pain killers would be something useful for a model to have with her - don't want a headache to mess up a shoot. I usually do location shoots so have some first aid stuff in my car.
Emergency contact details would be really useful. If a model were to be taken ill I wouldn't always have a clue who to call or if she has allergies etc. You could keep it in a sealed envelope so no-one needs to know what it says unless something happens.
I have an entry in my address book on my phone for 'ICE' - 'In Case of Emergency'. You can also get an app for your phone that can show details without needing to unlock the phone.
I have a coupe first aid kits in studio, and I have had training.
nothing serious has ever come up thankfully, mostly they were battle wounds from previous shoots. epi pen I don't have right now, but I do keep bee sting (benzocaine) swabs
Have administered upon request: bandaids, neosporin, aveeno anti-itch, aloe, allergy meds, tylenol, advil.
Out in the field, the rocks around waterfalls can be really slippery, I just go slow and if I am with a model make sure the path is safe etc. Also good to have a blanket for the model if your out in the cold.
I now keep dryer sheets in my kit to ward off mosquitoes. lol, ya....
Thank you for all your replies. I'll be getting back to this thread. Unfortunately had another severe reaction and passed out today. Got to go in an ambulance and everything. Doctors still cant find the cause of it =/
Samantha Emme wrote: Thank you for all your replies. I'll be getting back to this thread. Unfortunately had another severe reaction and passed out today. Got to go in an ambulance and everything. Doctors still cant find the cause of it =/
Yikes, two shots of Epi in a day isn't fun, I would imagine. Once is bad enough. I've had shots a day or two apart, but not the same day. And it's such a strange, indescribable experience. Good luck. I have a LOT of experience with anaphylaxis. Been there, done that. PM me if you'd like.
Samantha Emme wrote: Alright, so I had my first anaphylactic allergic reaction this morning to an unknown substance in the air I inhaled. This means I've got to have an epi pen handy now at all times in my first aid kit.
Which got me thinking, models, how many of you bring a small first aid kit just in case something happens?
And a question for photographers, does a models medical conditions affect your willingness to work with them. Hence, if you see me with an epi pen, would you be more uneasy to shoot?
Medical conditions are a factor, but whether it means I won't shoot with someone depends on an array of things. Might be as simple to solve as having the model tell me what to watch for, and what to do if it happens.
aren't you supposed to take benadryl in addition to the epi? and the epi is just to buy time to get you to the ER?
safety first. i have a hard time with stinky stuff like perfume, cologne, bleach, ammonia. those things are weapons of mass destruction!
if you have a problem that's likely to occur on set (like low blood sugar) then maybe mention it to the photographer so he won't think you're drunk and can help get you some glucose.
Kyle T Edwards
Posts: 288
St Catharines, Ontario, Canada
If you showed up with an epi-pen, I'd have two questions for you: first, what is it that you're allergic to, and second, in the event that I need to administer the pen, what do I need to do?
Sure, I'd want us to be careful in any environments where the allergen exists, but that would be because I wouldn't want to put you in any unnecessary risk (a condition which I try to adhere to, regardless of what you bring). But no, it wouldn't scare me away from working with you. Not for a moment.
I always ask models about allergies especially if they come to my studio because of the cats. Have well-stocked kit and have the training to use it. My full-time job is in the medical field.
Raven-Lily
Posts: 77
Eastbourne, England, United Kingdom
Like Canada, You need a prescription for an Epi-Pen in England which are hard to obtain, and you cant even buy them as it can be used as a weapon what with the huge needle (my brother needs to carry these as he also suffers from anaphylactic shocks)
and an epi pen is easy to administer you just need some strength to get the needle in fully.
The one that always concerns me is an allergic reaction to bee stings (which can be deadly), because the allergy can develop over time and manifest suddenly and unexpectedly. You can go your whole life without any apparent reaction (other than the local pain) to a bee sting, and then suddenly have a catastrophic reaction. The epi pen can literally save your life, and with this particular allergy you might not know you were in jeopardy until it's too late.
Other than that, I spent so much time in the back woods over the years that a basic first-aid kit has always been part of my location gear. I should also mention that I really don't like NEEDING a first-aid kit, so I generally try to avoid putting myself or any of my team in situations where first aid is likely to be a necessity. The first item in the kit is a little common sense.
As long as the model is up-front about the condition, it doesn't diminish my willingness one bit. It might even make me more interested in shooting with her, since she's working through her medical issues and showing a stronger work ethic in doing so.
But I'd be extremely pissed if on the shoot the model experienced some medical issue she hadn't told me about in advance.
Thank you for your input It looks like this is the common belief held over this, so for now I think I will just err on the safe time and notify photographers so they don't have the burden of trying to fix a stranger.
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