The Emergency Department (ED) is actively combating opioid overdoses through the California Naloxone Distribution Project, providing naloxone kits to patients at risk of overdose. This life-saving medication quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and, along with the kits, comes education on recognizing overdose symptoms and using naloxone effectively.
ED nurses play a critical role in patient education, discussing opioid safety, risks of misuse, and the importance of having naloxone on hand. Through this approach, the ED helps reduce the risk of opioid-related fatalities and fosters a more informed, supportive community.
Nurses also ensure that care is delivered in a socially sensitive, non-judgmental way. Recognizing the complexities of addiction, they provide compassionate care that goes beyond bias, helping to build trust and encouraging patients to seek the support they need without fear of stigma.