Opioid Treatment Algorithm

Opioid overdose or intoxication can stop or slow down breathing. And so, quick, informed action is critical to saving lives. This opioid treatment guide can help recognize an overdose, perform life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and administer naloxone effectively and safely. Whether you are a first responder or someone at risk, these steps empower you to act fast and improve the chances of survival.

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Flexible
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Nationally accepted
certification

Valid for
2 years

Includes 4.0
CE credits

Step-by-Step Analysis of the Flowchart

Identify Overdose Symptoms
You notice they’re barely breathing, not waking up, and their pupils are tiny. Don’t second-guess it, call 911, and grab naloxone.
Quick Action
If they’re not breathing or struggling to, jump into action. Start CPR immediately. Hard and fast chest compressions help maintain circulation until help arrives.
Time for Naloxone
Administer naloxone using the nasal spray or an injection. Repeat in about 4 minutes if there is no response; it’s safe and effective if you follow the correct dosage.
Look for Signs
Stay vigilant in case they regain consciousness or breathe normally. If there’s no response, maintain CPR and apply automated external defibrillator (AED) until medical help takes over.

Highlights of the Opioid Treatment Algorithm

CPR
Short for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency practice using chest compressions to keep blood flowing during cardiac arrest.
Naloxone
A medicine that rapidly restores breathing and reverses an opioid overdose.
Opioid antagonist
This drug acts on one or more of the opioid receptors and blocks the effects of opioids in the brain.
Intranasal
A method of delivering medication through the nose, allowing quick absorption into the bloodstream via the nasal mucosa.
Intramuscular
A method of injecting medicine into a muscle for fast, effective absorption.
AED
It is also called an automated external defibrillator, a device that shocks the heart to bring back a normal rhythm.
Emergency responders
Qualified professionals who provide urgent medical help, like paramedics or emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Explore Our CPR Algorithms

Simple Adult BLS Algorithm

Step-by-step process for rescuing adults experiencing cardiac arrest through CPR and defibrillation.

Adult Basic Life Support (BLS) Algorithm

Systematic approach to perform lifesaving CPR and defibrillation for adults

Opioid Treatment Algorithm

Why Do Learners Choose Us?

Flexible learning

Nationally accepted certification

Valid for 2 years

Includes 4.0 CE credits