The first FDA approved auto-injector for opioid overdose and shared tips on how to spot an opioid emergency.
With opioid overdose surpassing motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of injury related death, the approval of Naloxone (commonly known as Narcan) as a single-dose injection has enormous potential to treat overdoses of drugs like heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone and morphine.
Naloxone Is Making A Difference
Today, we’re happy to report that Naloxone is, indeed, making a difference in the short time it’s been available. Police in 17 states have been approved to carry doses of Naloxone in nasal spray form and officers in Delaware County, Pennsylvania are already noticing a major impact.
As the first county in Pennsylvania to approve equipping law enforcement with Naloxone, Delaware County officers have already treated 14 overdose victims – most of which likely wouldn’t have survived without the availability of Naloxone.
Seconds Count When the Body Starts Shutting Down
When the body is in respiratory distress, a few moments could mean the difference between life and death. Since police are often the first to arrive on the scene when a victim has overdosed, carrying the spray can save valuable time.
By equipping officers with a dose of Naloxone, more overdose victims could potentially survive to receive further medical attention. Even if paramedics arrive on the scene shortly after police, a dose of the nasal spray can be the difference between life and death.
A Deleware Man Was Saved By Naloxone
This was the case for Delaware County Sergeant James Kelly of the Haverford Township. After finding an unresponsive victim believed to be suffering a heroin overdose, Kelly administered two doses of Naloxone, which allowed the victim to survive until paramedics were able to revive the victim with a third intravenous dose.
For more information on how Naloxone is saving lives and see a full list of states and counties that have approved the carrying of Naloxone by law enforcement, click here.
CPR and First Aid Training for Medical Professionals
If you’re in the medical profession, rescue personnel, or in a position that puts you in contact with drug users, CPR Training may be required. Contact Response Institute to schedule a CPR or first aid class. We’re happy to advise which classes will meet your requirements or be the best suited for your particular needs.
