When it comes to saving lives, being prepared can make a difference especially during an overdose emergency. A Montreal social work student eager to save lives by providing training on how to administer the naloxone which counteracts the effects of an opioid drug overdose in just minutes.
Dangers of opioids
At large doses, opioids such as oxycodone, fentanyl and morphine can stop the breathing of a person. Richard Davy studies social work at McGill University. He saw people on the streets of his city who appear to overdose. This urged him to do something about it.
Davy also advocates for the drug to be widely available. According to Davy, naloxone must be available in every first aid kit. Naloxone is sold as a nasal spray under the name NARCAN. It is available without a prescription at pharmacies all over Canada.
Overdose concerns
If an individual is suspected with an opioid overdose, call for emergency assistance. The usual signs of an overdose include difficulty talking, walking or staying awake, bluish nails or lips, small pupils, clammy and cold skin, dizziness, excessive drowsiness, confusion slow or weak breathing, choking or gurgling sounds and difficulty waking up even with shaking movements or loud voices.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in a first aid and CPR course and for more information, check out these sources:
https://drugfree.org/article/overdose-response-treatment/