Opioid Overdose Prevention

Policy Statement:

It is the policy of Manhattan Public Library for trained staff to administer Naloxone, in accordance with state law and guidelines and oversight, to persons suffering from opioid overdose at the earliest possible time to minimize chances of a fatality.

Definitions:

  1. Naloxone: an antidote for opioid overdose. Narcan is a brand name for intranasal Naloxone.
  2. Opioids: a class of drugs that interact with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the body and brain. Opioids include the entire family of opiates including natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic forms. Opioids include drugs such as heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription such as oxycodone, hydrocodone and morphine.
  3. Opioid Overdose: an acute condition including, but not limited to, extreme physical illness, decreased level of consciousness, respiratory depression, coma, or death resulting from the consumption or use of an opioid or another substance with which an opioid was combined, or that a layperson would reasonably believe to be an opioid-related drug overdose that requires medical assistance.

Regulations:

  1. Only staff trained in the use of Naloxone are authorized to administer Naloxone at Manhattan Public Library.
  2. The first response in the case of any suspected opioid overdose is to summon EMS by calling 911 and communicate that the patient is in suspected overdose, and that naloxone administration is intended.
  3. Naloxone must be administered per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. When EMS arrives, the empty container should be given to them. Note which nostril used for Naloxone administration if possible.
  5. The Library Director will oversee the Opioid Overdose Prevention Policy. The oversight responsibilities will include:
    1. Ensuring that all Naloxone kits are current and unexpired
    2. Ensuring that authorized staff are appropriately trained in the use and storage of Naloxone
    3. Replacing Naloxone kits that are damaged, unusable, expired, or used.
  6. Staff training should include, at a minimum, the following:
    1. Instruction to summon emergency medical services as soon as possible
    2. Signs of opioid overdose
    3. Steps in responding to an overdose
    4. Information on safety procedures to protect staff member
    5. Information on Naloxone
    6. Procedures for administering Naloxone
  7. Staff shall be trained annually.

Approved by the Board May 6, 2024

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