As opioid overdose deaths in the United States continue to climb, we should all have the knowledge of and be prepared to administer naloxone in the event of an overdose. The risk of being unprepared can result in loss of life. The administration of naloxone is an evidence‐based way to reverse overdoses and save lives.

Across the country, medical students, emergency medicine educators, and administrators are working together to integrate naloxone rescue training into the Basic Life Support (BLS) curriculum required of medical students.

What if we incorporated naloxone training as part of standard first aid and CPR trainings?

Lori Kottre, Office Manger with Marian Manor HealthCare Center, recently shared how and why they incorporate naloxone training with annual CPR re-certifications at their facility. Marian Manor is a skilled nursing facility located in Glen Ullin, North Dakota.

“We have combined the two trainings and offer them during all CPR training renewals. We believe it is important for our staff to know what do to or suspect when it comes to an overdose. We want them to understand there is no harm in administering Naloxone if they believe it is necessary; however, not administering Naloxone can be deadly in an emergency situation,” Kottre explained.

“I am an EMT with our local volunteer ambulance system; I help teach these classes. Overdoses can happen anywhere, including in a nursing home especially as older people metabolize slower. I also want to do our part to educate on what kids are doing these days so we are aware and can be responsive if needed. These drugs are out there and many are simply not aware. Naloxone education is important. At Marian Manor, we opted to combine the two classes to reduce the number of classes our team must attend. So far, this has been a favorable approach,” Kottre concluded.