Treat and Refer - Heroin Overdose Flashcards
Why are pts who take opioids other than heroin in a higher risk category?
Variable duration of action as compared with heroin, Naloxone has a short duration of action which may be insufficient.
What is the specific indication for a patient to be eligible to be considered for the Heroin Overdose TnR pathway?
Isolated heroin overdose which has responded to a single dose of Naloxone with full recovery.
What are the 9 contraindications to the Heroin Overdose Treat and Refer guideline?
- Incomplete recovery - GCS <15, RR<10
- Pt required 2nd dose of Naloxone
- Suspected/confirmed other opioid used
- ?polypharmacy, esp. alcohol, benzo’s, other sedatives
- Other factors contributing to ALOC, hypo/infection/trauma etc.
- Any suspected/reported seizure
- Suspected aspiration/APO
- Pregnancy
- Pt is a risk to self/others
What 3 assessment points must a pt satisfy to meet the Heroin Overdose TnR, if indicated and no contraindications present?
- Pt clear chest on auscultation
- SPO2 >94% on RA
- Fully recovered, low risk, can be supervised by competent adult for >4hrs.
In the Heroin Overdose Treat and Refer guideline, if any respiratory compromise then…?
ED Transport.
Can consider taking to other drug support service if refuses and no responsible adult.
If a pt is eligible to be TnR under the Heroin Overdose Treat and Refer guideline, what are the 5 actions that need to be satisfied?
- Advise pt of risk of relapse if opioid taken in <6hrs
- Advise pt of need to avoid all sedating drugs while affected
- Advise pt of local support resources
- Provide pt with health info sheet
- Confirm pt understands advice prior to departure
There is a significant risk of relapse if opioids are taken within _____ hours of Naloxone-induced recovery.
6
How long does the pt need to be supervised for post-overdose?
> 4hrs.
