The nurse is training persons enrolled at a community center information session on administering naloxone (Narcan) to opioid overdose victims. Which information should the nurse include when teaching this group?
is administered by subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or arm
works instantly
lasts 30 minutes
can be administered by lay persons, provided they have had training
Numbers 3 and 4 are correct.
Rationale: A single dose starts to wear off within 30 minutes and is essentially gone after 90 minutes. Bystanders, with education and training, are able to successfully administer naloxone (Narcan) to persons experiencing an opioid overdose. Naloxone (Narcan) is administered by intramuscular (IM) injection in the muscle of the arm, thigh, or buttocks. Alternately, the medication may be administered by nasal spray. The medication typically works within 5 minutes.
