Unexpected emergencies can happen, and being prepared can make a difference. Because of this, Winona State University has strategically put Narcan (naloxone) in every AED container throughout campus. It’s easy to use, 100% free, and it’s encouraged to carry it with you everywhere you go.
Having Narcan on hand is a simple gesture that can make a big difference, but it is as important to preserve it properly. To keep Narcan functional, avoid locations with extreme or varying temperatures, such as keeping in your car during the summer and winter months. It is preferred to store it in a dry, temperature-controlled location, like a desk drawer or a handbag.
Narcan, The Superhero
Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose and is commonly known as Narcan. It‘s an opioid antagonist – it attaches to opioid receptors to reverse and block the effects of opioids. Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose from heroin, fentanyl–which is commonly mixed into other drugs, and oxycodone.
Important Disclaimer
Narcan only works to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses and does not work on alcohol and other drug-related overdoses. Narcan will NOT hurt the recipient if they are not experiencing an opioid overdose.
How to Use Narcan
Step 1: Check for Signs of an Opioid Overdose
If you suspect that someone is overdosing from opioids, look out for these signs and symptoms:
- Inability to wake up or unresponsive
- Vomiting
- Pinpoint pupil
- Pulse is slow, erratic, or stopped
- Clammy, cool, bluish or pale skin
- Irregular breathing (10 seconds before each breath)
Step 2: Give 1 Dose in Nostril
Remove the Narcan from the package and insert the device into the nose. Firmly press into the nasal passageways and push on the plunger of the Narcan to administer.
Step 3: Call 911
Call 911 immediately after the 1st dose and wait 2-3 minutes for the first dose to work.
While waiting for the Narcan to take effect, give the person some space as it quickly puts their system into withdrawal state – and it’s not exactly a warm awakening as they may become angry. The best thing you can do is remain calm, give them room, and let the experts handle things when they get there.
Step 4: Stay & Monitor
Stay with the person until first responders arrive.
It is possible that the person may not wake up from the first dose or become sleepy again. If this happens, administer another dose while waiting for help. Each Narcan device contains only one dose.
NOTE: Narcan WILL NOT hurt the recipient even If they are not experiencing an overdose.
Be a Good Samaritan
You are protected while helping in an emergency due to Good Samaritan laws. These laws protect you from getting into legal trouble when helping someone in need. As a Winona State Warrior, we don’t leave warriors behind as it takes all of us to create a safer and healthier campus community.
Resources
Whether you or someone you know has experienced an opioid overdose, please check out the resources below for additional help.
