Which of the following describes common signs of a dangerous opioid overdose in the field?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following describes common signs of a dangerous opioid overdose in the field?

Opioids slow breathing and depress consciousness, so field signs of a dangerous overdose center on breathing, responsiveness, and oxygenation. The key combination is slow or irregular, shallow breathing; the person is unresponsive or hard to wake; and the pupils are very small (pinpoint). You’ll often see the lips or skin pale or bluish from lack of oxygen. This cluster of symptoms flags a life-threatening overdose that requires urgent medical help and, if trained, naloxone administration. High fever and rash don’t fit opioid overdose; they point to infection or allergy. Nausea alone is not specific to an overdose. Rapid breathing and being alert are the opposite of what opioids typically cause, which is slowed breathing and reduced consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services right away and use naloxone if you’re trained and it’s available.

Opioids slow breathing and depress consciousness, so field signs of a dangerous overdose center on breathing, responsiveness, and oxygenation. The key combination is slow or irregular, shallow breathing; the person is unresponsive or hard to wake; and the pupils are very small (pinpoint). You’ll often see the lips or skin pale or bluish from lack of oxygen. This cluster of symptoms flags a life-threatening overdose that requires urgent medical help and, if trained, naloxone administration.

High fever and rash don’t fit opioid overdose; they point to infection or allergy. Nausea alone is not specific to an overdose. Rapid breathing and being alert are the opposite of what opioids typically cause, which is slowed breathing and reduced consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services right away and use naloxone if you’re trained and it’s available.

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