Overdose Awareness
& Narcan Use
Protecting Our Community in
St. John the Baptist Parish
Opioid addiction and overdose have become a growing concern in St. John the Baptist Parish, impacting individuals, families, and our community. At the PATH Program, we are dedicated to spreading awareness about the signs of opioid overdose and empowering you with the knowledge to take immediate, life-saving action with Narcan (naloxone) in case of an emergency.
Recognizing the Signs of an Opioid Overdose
An opioid overdose can happen when someone has taken too much of an opioid medication, whether prescribed or illicit. Immediate recognition of the signs is critical to prevent irreversible damage or death. Look for the following symptoms:
- Extremely Pale Face/Clammy Skin: A noticeable paleness or clamminess to the touch may indicate an overdose.
- Limp Body: The body may appear lifeless or limp.
- Blue or Purple Lips/Fingernails: Discoloration around the lips or nails may signal insufficient oxygen.
- Vomiting or Gurgling Sounds: The person may vomit or make choking or gurgling sounds.
- Unconsciousness: If the person cannot be awakened or is unable to speak, it may be an overdose.
- Breathing Issues: The person’s breathing may be very slow or may have stopped entirely.
- Slow or Stopped Heartbeat: A weakened or absent pulse is a serious sign of overdose.
If you observe any these symptoms, immediate action is critical. Call 911 and administer Narcan if available.
Signs of Over-Medication
(Which May Lead to Overdose)
Sometimes, an overdose starts as over-medication, a serious situation that can quickly escalate. Signs of over-medication that may progress to overdose include:
- Excessive Sleepiness/Drowsiness: Unusual fatigue or an inability to stay awake.
- Mental Confusion/Slurred Speech: The person may seem confused, have trouble speaking clearly, or appear intoxicated.
- Shallow Breathing: Breaths may become abnormally slow or shallow.
- Pinpoint Pupils: The pupils may become very small, a common sign of opioid intoxication.
- Slow Heartbeat/Low Blood Pressure: A significantly slowed heart rate and low blood pressure can lead to life-threatening complications.
- Difficulty Waking Up: If the person cannot be woken from sleep, they may be experiencing an overdose.
If any of these signs appear, seek help immediately. It’s essential to address the situation before it escalates to an overdose.
Narcan: How to Save a Life
Narcan (naloxone) is a lifesaving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by quickly restoring normal breathing in someone who has overdosed on opioids. Here’s how to administer Narcan nasal spray:
- Administer Narcan: Spray Narcan once into each nostril. Make sure the person is lying down on their back.
- Repeat Doses: If the person does not wake up or breathe normally, repeat doses every 2 to 3 minutes until medical help arrives.
Remember, Narcan only works on opioid overdoses, and immediate medical assistance is still required even if Narcan temporarily revives the individual.
Protect Your Community
By educating yourself on the signs of opioid overdose and learning how to administer Narcan, you are taking a crucial step in safeguarding the lives of those in St. John the Baptist Parish. Whether you’re a concerned friend, family member, or community member, you have the power to make a difference.
Together, we can help prevent overdose deaths, support those on the road to recovery, and strengthen the St. John the Baptist Parish community.
For more information on addiction treatment, opioid misuse prevention, or to learn how to access Narcan in our community, please contact us.
Get Started Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, take the first step towards recovery today. Contact us to learn more about how the PATH Program can help you achieve lasting recovery and a brighter future.
Your journey to recovery begins here.
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