HHS releases guidance for naloxone administration during pandemic
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued guidance for first responders to safely administer naloxone during the COVID-19 pandemic.
HHS stated that naloxone can be safely administered with proper PPE and safety measures, and published resources for first responders responding to overdoses during the pandemic.
A flyer published by the department outlines eight steps for administering naloxone while reducing the risk of COVID-19 exposure.
By taking universal safety precautions, all law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS providers can safely administer naloxone for overdose reversal, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The resources listed below provide guidance for first responders.
- HHS Naloxone Advisory for First Responders
- CDC Guidance for Firefighters and EMS Providers during COVID-19
- CDC Guidance on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- SAMHSA Guidance for Law Enforcement and First Responders Administering Naloxone during COVID-19
- Interim Guidance for CPR & Emergency Cardiovascular Care during COVID-19 from the American Heart Association