The American Red Cross announced Thursday that it has launched what it’s calling a First Aid for Opioid Overdoses Course — an online course to teach people how to respond to a known or suspected opioid overdose.
“An opioid overdose is a life-threatening emergency,” said John Duck, executive director for the U.S. Virgin Islands. “When you suspect an opioid overdose, it’s important to start providing care immediately.”
According to the release, the 45-minute course contains content on how to identify the signs and symptoms of a suspected opioid overdose and the appropriate care to provide based on the responsiveness of the person. Information on how to use several different naloxone products – including a nasal atomizer, Narcan® Nasal Spray and EVZIO® – to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose is also included.
People can register and access the course at https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/opioidoverdose. Because an opioid overdose can lead to cardiac arrest, people are also encouraged to take a Red Cross CPR/AED course.
Recently, the Red Cross had the opportunity to share its commitment and efforts to help address this public health crisis at a White House opioids event, according to the release. Learn more about the event, and the involvement of the Red Cross here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/year-historic-action-combat-opioid-crisis/
Red Cross has also prepared guidance on opioid use and overdose response for those working in the organization’s shelters during disasters. Recently, these efforts empowered a Red Cross volunteer to help save the life of a person in a shelter during Hurricane Florence.
Tags: red cross, usvi
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