Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Narcan in an emergency:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Using Narcan Nasal Spray
1. Assess the Situation
Check for signs of overdose: Slow or no breathing, unresponsiveness, blue lips or fingernails, and limp body are common signs of an opioid overdose.
Call 911 immediately for help. Let the operator know it's a potential opioid overdose.
2. Prepare the Narcan Nasal Spray
Tilt the person’s head back to open their airway.
Remove the Narcan spray from its packaging.
Hold the spray with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and two fingers on the nozzle.
3. Administer Narcan
Insert the nozzle into one nostril: Place the tip of the nozzle in the person's nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of their nose.
Press the plunger firmly to release the entire dose into the nostril.
4. Monitor the Person
Turn the person on their side in the recovery position if they start breathing again or remain unresponsive but are breathing.
Perform CPR if the person isn’t breathing or their breathing is very weak.
Chest compressions can help until medical help arrives.
5. Administer a Second Dose (if needed)
If there’s no response within 2-3 minutes, give a second dose of Narcan in the other nostril.
Continue to monitor the person’s breathing and pulse until emergency services arrive.
6. Stay with the Person
Naloxone is temporary and may wear off before the opioids leave the person’s system.
Overdoses can recur, so it’s critical to stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Important Tips- Narcan only works for opioid overdoses: It will not reverse overdoses caused by other drugs like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or stimulants (like cocaine or methamphetamine).
There’s no harm in using Narcan, even if the person is not overdosing on opioids. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.- Keep Narcan on hand if you or someone you know uses opioids, whether prescribed or illicit, as overdoses can happen unexpectedly.
Where to Get Narcan
Narcan is available at many pharmacies without a prescription and through various community organizations. Local health departments and recovery centers often provide Narcan training and free kits.
By knowing how to use Narcan, you could save a life during an opioid overdose emergency.
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