The importance of time is based on the fact that all opiates have a long duration of effect, so constant care for long periods of time may be necessary to restore breathing to an overdose victim. One fact is for certain if the person awakes it is imperative that they not reuse any opiates, and support is always helpful. A second dose of opiates will always bring an overdose victim over the edge. These steps may be successful in many attempts to save the life of a suspected overdose victim.
One problem an EMT may face is finding out the SAMPLE history of an overdose victim and quickly being able to diagnose overdose by clinical assumption. M. Dillon states, Narcotic overdoses are typically characterized by three signs Coma, (or depressed level of consciousness), pinpoint pupils, and respiratory depression (slow shallow respirations). Together these signs are sometimes referred to as the opiate triad” (2006) In any case drugs, paraphernalia, and track marks showing IV punctures in veins may be a dead give away to possible overdose situation.
Other problems caused by opiates are generally related to serious drug addictions. Users can find themselves being highly addicted to the point where they must slowly wean off the drugs using methadone received at local clinics. Though most users may compare withdrawals to having the flu some seriously addicted people may have more severe problems develop. Prolonged use of the drug actually overrides the body's natural pain killing endorphins causing an imbalance which could lead to serious problems. In most cases opiates are a last result in the medical practice because of the threats of addiction and negative side effects of the drug on patients. Another issue that may arise with prescription painkillers is children finding the drugs, and eventually misusing the drugs. Today many people still do not even consider this idea as a possibility, and believe their medications are safe from misuse. The fact is more and more young adults are finding their way into their parent's medicine cabinets many of whom think they know everything, but in fact do not. Many younger people do not realize the risk and dangers of overdosing on opiates. The truth is that we need to educate young adults about the risk of abusing drugs, and educate their parents as well. The benefits of the drug vs. the substantial risk weigh out on a balance that we must all take some responsibility for.
