Step 1— Determine if the person is unconscious by doing a sternal rub for 10 seconds by rubbing your knuckles on the breast bone and talking to the person. If there is no response check for breathing and pulse. Look for:
- Small, pin-point pupils
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Snoring or gurgling sounds
- Clammy or pale skin
- Blue lips or nails
- Inability to speak
- Faint or no heartbeat
Step 2— Call 911 immediately. Opioid overdose is a very dangerous condition that can result in permanent physical and mental damage or even death if medical treatment is not administered right away.
Step 3— Check for breathing and pulse. Provide rescue breathes, chest compressions or other necessary first aid.
Step 4— Administer the NARCAN® by placing the NARCAN® in one nostril and pushing the NARCAN®’s plunger. Do not prime or test the spray. It is best to position the person on their back, but it is not necessary. Expect some of the spray to flow from the nostril. The 4 mg dose assures that a sufficient amount of the drug will be absorbed through the person’s mucus membranes. Note: If another form is naloxone is used, follow the directions given.
Step 5— If a person is unconscious, but is breathing, they should be placed in the recovery position. This will keep their airway clear and open, and ensures that any vomit or fluids won’t cause them to choke.
Step 6— If the person does not begin breathing on their own, a second dose of NARCAN® can be administered in the other nostril 2-3 minutes after the first dose.