Posts by Emily Lammers
How to Administer Naloxone
Naloxone is a life-saving medicine that will reverse an opioid overdose. Below are two common forms with instructions on how to use. Administering NARCAN® Peel back the package to remove the device. Place the tip of the nozzle in either nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the person’s nose. DO NOT test the…
Read MoreFDA Approves Over-The-Counter Narcan
On Wednesday, March 29, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC) nonprescription use. This makes it the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription. Narcan is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose in adults and children.…
Read MoreWhat is Detoxification?
Detoxification, or simply, “detox,” is the process of taking someone off of an opioid that they are physically dependent on. Through the detoxification process, the person is given medically supervised and gradually reduced doses of medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The goal of detoxing is to: Eradicate the body of its daily dependence…
Read MoreHow to Identify and Respond to an Opioid Overdose
6 Physical Signs of an Opioid Overdose: Unresponsiveness Pinpoint-sized pupils Slow heartbeat and/or low blood pressure Slow or no breathing Blue/gray fingernails and lips Pale and/or clammy skin How to Respond to an Opioid Overdose: 1. Call Assess the person based on the six signs listed above and CALL 911 as soon as possible. 2.…
Read MoreA Safe Haven at CenterPointe Hospital
How CenterPointe Hospital creates a safe haven for patients on their road to recovery. with Sheila Hunt To feel safe and supported, regardless of who you are and what you’ve done, is not something everyone experiences in life. Sheila Hunt, Regional Director of Business Development for CenterPointe Hospital is responsible for sharing available resources to…
Read MoreThe integral role paramedics and first responders play in the recovery process.
St. Charles County Ambulance District with Lisa Cassidy Kindness and compassion go a long way when it comes to providing support to anyone with substance use disorder. Lisa Cassidy, a paramedic for St. Charles County Ambulance Department and member of their Substance Use Recovery Response Team (SURRT), brings the support her patients need, along with…
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