Naloxone Hydrochloride (Narcan) Flashcards
1
Q
General
A
- Function: Reverse respiratory depression/mental status secondary to actual or suspected narcotic overdose
- Examples or narcotics: Fentanyl, Carfentanil, Oxycodone, Demerol, Heroin, Codeine, Oxymorphone, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Percocet, Vicodin and Tramadol
2
Q
Classification
A
Narcotic antagonist
3
Q
Actions
A
Competes for opioid receptor sites. Displaces previously administered opioids from receptors. No pharmacological activity on its own
4
Q
Indications
A
- Decreased lvl of responsiveness
- Respiratory depression (requiring BVM)
- Signs & symptoms suggestive of narcotic overdose (pinpoint pupils, drug paraphernalia, track marks, pill bottles, etc.)
5
Q
Contraindications - Functional Inquiry
A
- Known allergy to Naloxone
- Ask bystanders/family/friends if there is a known allergy to Naloxone - Pediatric
- Naloxone not given to Neonate
6
Q
Contraindications - Physical Assessment
A
None
7
Q
Cautions - Functional Inquiry
A
Acute Withdrawal Symptoms/Aggression
8
Q
Cautions - Physical Assessment
A
Continuously assess & prepare for withdrawal symptoms (Nausea, vomiting, anxiety, aggression, sweating, tachycardia, etc.)
9
Q
Side Effects
A
- CNS - Excitation due to abrupt reversal of analgesia
- CVS - Tachycardia, hypertension, hypotension, arrhythmias
- Skin - Sweating
10
Q
Dosage
A
Delivered q3 minutes in the following order until LOC and/or RR improve: 0.4 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.8 mg, & 0.2 mg
11
Q
Route
A
Interamuscular (IM)
12
Q
Onset, Duration
A
- Onset: 3-5 mins
- Peak: Unknown
- Duration: 45 mins
13
Q
Special Considerations
A
- Can cause abrupt state of narcotic withdrawal in the physically dependent PT
- Side effects such as agitation can be symptoms of narcotic withdrawal
- Naloxone’s half-life is shorter than all opioids; therefore a PT must be observed until the narcotic effect has worn off
