Opioid overdose prevention education and training for non-medical bystanders in the public school setting: a best practice implementation project.

Abstract

Introduction: Opioid drug use is increasing at alarming rates. Educating non-medical bystanders on opioid overdose recognition and reversal techniques is critical in preventing fatal opioid overdoses in the public school setting.

Objective: The objective of this project was to improve non-medical bystanders' response to opioid overdose within a public school setting by educating school staff members on the signs of opioid overdose and the administration of the opioid antagonist, naloxone.

Methods: The JBI Evidence Implementation Framework was used in this project to optimize compliance with best practices for the early identification of the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and its prevention by administering naloxone.

Results: Educating non-medical bystanders regarding opioid overdose prevention measures can improve the response and outcome of a potential opioid overdose in the public school setting. Training was provided to educate non-medical staff about best practice recommendations, which could potentially prevent a fatality on campus related to opioid drug use. The pre- and post-audit results determined whether best practice recommendations were followed in the implementation strategies regarding opioid overdose prevention and naloxone administration.

Conclusions: Opioid overdose prevention education and training should be completed yearly during staff development for non-medical bystanders in the public school setting. By increasing awareness of signs and symptoms related to opioid overdose, prevention measures can be deployed to decrease the likelihood of a fatality of a student, staff member, or campus visitor while on school grounds. Continued education is vital and should be supported, utilized, and encouraged by the school district.

Spanish abstract: http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A372.