Citation

Kitch BB, Portela RC. Prehosp. Emerg. Care 2016; 20(2): 226-229.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, National Association of EMS Physicians, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/10903127.2015.1076097

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Growing rates of opioid abuse and overdose throughout the nation have lead some community organizations to develop naloxone administration programs.

METHODS: In Pitt County North Carolina, two of our law enforcement agencies were trained in the identification of opioid overdose and use of naloxone therapy.

RESULTS: Attributed partially to introduction of fentanyl into the illicit drug market, our community experienced a 48-hour period in which officers successfully deployed five doses of antagonist medication to four individuals.

CONCLUSION: This article presents case descriptions demonstrating the feasibility and safety of law enforcement naloxone programs. Key words: opioid; heroin; EMS; naloxone; overdose; substance abuse

Language: en