In the sequence of actions for suspected opioid overdose, which action comes immediately after recognizing signs?

In the sequence of actions for suspected opioid overdose, which action comes immediately after recognizing signs?

• A. Call 911
• B. Administer Naloxone
• C. Rescue breathing
• D. Monitor response

Answer: (A)

Recognizing signs of an opioid overdose means time is of the essence, because opioids can rapidly depress breathing. The immediate step is to call emergency services so professional responders are on the way with life-saving equipment and naloxone if available. This ensures you have trained help and guidance on scene while you continue to assess and assist the person (for example, giving rescue breaths if they're not breathing normally and monitoring their response) and follow dispatcher instructions. Administering naloxone or starting rescue breathing are important actions, but they should follow promptly after summoning help so the person can receive comprehensive care as soon as responders arrive.

Recognizing signs of an opioid overdose means time is of the essence, because opioids can rapidly depress breathing. The immediate step is to call emergency services so professional responders are on the way with life-saving equipment and naloxone if available. This ensures you have trained help and guidance on scene while you continue to assess and assist the person (for example, giving rescue breaths if they're not breathing normally and monitoring their response) and follow dispatcher instructions. Administering naloxone or starting rescue breathing are important actions, but they should follow promptly after summoning help so the person can receive comprehensive care as soon as responders arrive.