Local health workers offering help, ways to practice using a naloxone kit
Posted August 23, 2018 10:47 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – If you have a naloxone kit, would you know how to use it properly if you encountered someone who had overdosed? Fraser Health wants to make sure you’re well prepared, as BC records the second deadliest month of the year.
Many people have access to the kits now, but it’s critical to make sure you stay sharp on what to do — and practice. Naloxone is just one piece of the puzzle if you’re trying to save someone who is overdosing. You also have to have the presence of mind to dial 9-1-1 and provide rescue breaths.
Medical Health Officer Dr. Aamir Bharmal wants you to join an online demonstration and live chat, which will be broadcast on Fraser Health’s Facebook page at 1 p.m. next Monday.
“This is really an opportunity to take some time, actually reflect on the skills that you have and make sure that you are refreshed and ready to practice and be prepared for an overdose.”
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He adds if you got a kit a few months ago, you may need to brush up on the proper procedure. “This is really some time to just go through those steps, practice, and understand what to do in this type of situation.”
The online demonstration is happening in the lead-up to International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.
The Coroners Service says 134 people died of illicit drug overdoses in July.
– With files from Alison Bailey
