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Reducing Harms: Recognizing and Responding to Opioid Overdose in Your Organization

Nov 21, 2017

Executive Summary

Ontario is currently facing an increase in harms related to opioid use, with an increase in emergency room visits, hospitalizations and overdoses.

Recent data shows that, in 2016, there were 865 opioid related deaths in Ontario. Community service providers are in a position to support clients and staff to address these harms within their agencies through the development of an overdose protocol that includes administering naloxone in the event of an opioid related emergency. While naloxone has become increasingly available in Ontario through programs such as the Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies, some organizations

have experienced barriers to implementing an overdose prevention protocol. The overarching goal of this resource is to equip community service providers with current, accessible and relevant information that can be used to inform and develop an opioid overdose protocol.

This document is based in a harm reduction framework which is an evidence based approach to addressing the potential harms related to opioids including overdose deaths. This document provides the following content:

  • A comprehensive overview of Ontario’s current situation regarding opioids, naloxone, and opioid-related emergencies (overdose)
  • Prevention, risk factors, and identifying an opioid related emergency
  • Information related to administering naloxone intranasally, intramuscularly andaftercare
  • Explanation as to why a medical directive is not necessary for naloxoneadministration
  • Developing an overdose protocol in your organization, including staff training andobtaining naloxone kits
  • Debriefing and preventing distress post naloxone administration
  • Monitoring and evaluating your protocol, communicating it with clients, familiesand the broader community, and incorporating an equity lens into your protocolBased on available data, the current opioid overdose situation in Ontario does not show any signs of slowing. Stigma related to substance use and mental health is a contributing factor to individuals not accessing the support or information they may need. This document provides infographics that can be posted in your organization as a way to broaden conversations about opioid related emergencies, and reduce the stigma related to opioid use. In addition, an opioid overdose prevention and response policy template is also included which can be tailored for the unique needs of your organization.

Click to view whole article: CMHA-Ontario-Reducing-Harms-Nov-20-2017[1]

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