Overdose Medication Information
In the 2023 legislative session, the Minnesota Legislature took a significant step in addressing opioid overdoses by mandating the availability of naloxone hydrochloride, an opioid antagonist, to specific groups in the state. This initiative aims to expand access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, thereby serving as a crucial intervention to prevent opioid-related deaths in Minnesota.
Naloxone is designed to temporarily block the effects of opioids, including prescription opioids, heroin, fentanyl, fentanyl analogs, and other synthetic opioid street drugs, during an overdose emergency. While naloxone is effective against opioids, it's important to note that drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine found in Minnesota have been identified as being laced or contaminated with opioids.
Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial School has taken proactive measures to address opioid overdoses on its premises. Two doses of Nasal Naloxone are readily available on site, stored in the AED storage box and each Health Office. To ensure preparedness, the majority of staff members have undergone training on recognizing signs and symptoms of overdose and the proper administration of Nasal Naloxone. The district has implemented a comprehensive protocol governing the administration, storage, and documentation of naloxone use, which can be referenced in the provided link HERE.
The LCWM School Board Policy - 516.5 outlines guidelines related to overdose medication, emphasizing the importance of a systematic approach to address such incidents within the school setting. LCWM School Board Policy - 516.5 OVERDOSE MEDICATION
Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Health's Naloxone Standing Order and Protocol offer further guidance and resources to support the effective implementation of naloxone intervention strategies within the school district. MDH Naloxone Standing Order and Protocol can be found HERE