According to ODMAP (Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program), there is a potential or emerging spike in overdoses near our area. Immediate preparedness actions are essential. We would like to ensure everyone is prepared for potential or emerging overdose spikes in our area.

What is an Overdose

An overdose occurs when a person consumes a toxic amount of a substance, whether intentionally or unintentionally, leading to harmful, potentially deadly effects on the body. Common causes include misuse of prescription medications, excess amounts of an illicit substance, or combining substances.

Signs and Symptoms of an Opioid Overdose (e.g., Fentanyl, Heroin, Prescription Opiates):

• Slow, shallow, or irregular breathing (or no breathing at all).
• Blue or gray lips, fingertips, or cold, clammy skin due to lack of oxygen.
• Loss of consciousness or extreme drowsiness (unable to stay awake). Unable to wake the person or get a response, even when shaking them or shouting. (Sternum rub is an effective way to test for responsiveness)
• Extremely small, constricted pinpoint pupils
• Slow or erratic pulse (or no pulse).

The acronym B-L-U-E is helpful and can remind someone of what to look for if they think a person is having an overdose.

• B stands for breathing (shallow or absent).
• L stands for lips (pale, blue, or purple).
• U stands for unresponsive (verbal and physical stimuli).
• E stands for emergency (needs immediate medical attention).

If you are unsure whether someone is experiencing an overdose, it is essential to call 911 and treat the person as though they are having an overdose.

What is Naloxone (Narcan)

Naloxone (Narcan) is a life-saving nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses. It works on ALL OPIOIDs. It only reverses an overdose. It is even safe to administer to pregnant women, children, and dogs!

How to Administer Naloxone (Narcan): https://youtu.be/kGxiLnD0dKY

1) After identifying a possible or suspected overdose, First call 911 for emergency assistance.
2) Lay the person on their back.
3) Gently insert the tip of the Narcan nozzle into one nostril until your fingers are against the bottom of the person’s nose. Firmly press the plunger to administer the pre-metered dose.
4) Turn the person on their side into the recovery position.
5) If the person does not respond within 2-3 minutes, administer another dose (Continue this process indefinitely until the person is responding, or there is no more Naloxone available).
6) Continue to monitor the person and provide rescue breathing if comfortable, but always wait for emergency responders to arrive.

The Good Samaritan Law – You are Protected!

The Good Samaritan Law protects you when you call 911 during an overdose and when you administer aid.

CRITICAL ACTION ITEMS – What you can do!

• Verify naloxone kit locations and expiration dates in all facilities. If you need Naloxone please reach out to the Purchase District Health Department.
• All staff must know proper naloxone administration steps. (If you are not trained in Narcan administration, please contact PDHD-Harm Reduction for this training immediately)
• Emergency Contact in the event of an overdose: 911 emergency services

Please keep a watchful eye on patients and members of the community for signs and symptoms of an overdose. In the event you are unsure of an overdose, remember, Narcan will not hurt someone if they are not overdosing!

Resources:

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7 treatment referral)

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline : 988

Never Use Alone: 1-800-484-3731 (Confidential, 24/7 Availability: The hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year)

Naloxone location in KY: https://findnaloxone.ky.gov Treatment locator: https://findtreatment.gov

Mental health/ SUD treatment/ recovery housing/ Naloxone location: https://findhelpnow.org/ky

*If you have any further questions/comments/concerns, please reach out to PDHD Harm Reduction at:

Purchase District Health Department

916 Kentucky Avenue

Paducah, KY 42003

Office: (270) 444-9625 x. 175

Cell: 270-559-4800