Drug Overdose Response & Narcan Protocol

Signs & Symptoms of Overdose

  • Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
  • Blue/pale lips or fingertips
  • Unresponsiveness or inability to wake up
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Gurgling, choking, or snoring-like sounds
  • Vomiting, seizures, or limp body

Immediate Response Steps

  1. Call 911 immediately (always first step).
  2. Check responsiveness and breathing.
  3. Administer Narcan (Naloxone) if available.
  4. Begin rescue breathing or CPR if trained and necessary.
  5. Stay with the individual until emergency responders arrive.

Narcan (Naloxone) Use:

  • What it is: Narcan is a life-saving medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses.
  • How it works: It binds to opioid receptors and blocks/reverses the effects of opioids.
  • Administration:
    1. Remove Narcan spray from package.
    2. Place nozzle into one nostril.
    3. Firmly press plunger to release dose.
    4. If no response in 2–3 minutes, administer a second dose in the other nostril.
  • Aftercare: Once revived, individuals may be disoriented or aggressive. Keep them safe and calm until EMS arrives.

Staff Protocol:

  • All staff must complete annual overdose response training, including hands-on Narcan use.
  • Narcan kits must be kept on hand in field bags and office visitation rooms.
  • Every overdose incident must be reported as a sentinel event and documented immediately.

Purpose: To protect families, staff, and community members, while reinforcing our readiness to respond to real-world crises with professionalism and care.