What is the first action to take when an opioid overdose is suspected?

• A. Feed the person carbohydrates.
• B. Offer water and wait.
• C. Notify captain/MedLink; deliver medical assistance; Narcan (naloxone) per protocol.
• D. Administer syrup of ipecac.

Answer: (C)

The first action is to activate medical support and reverse the overdose as quickly as possible. Opioids slow or stop breathing, so getting help and giving naloxone promptly can restore respiration and prevent brain injury or death. Notify the captain or Medical Link and deliver medical assistance per the flight protocol, then administer Narcan (naloxone) as authorized. This rapid reversal is why this option is the best choice. Do not delay by offering food or water, and avoid syrup of ipecac, as they do not treat the overdose and won’t improve respiration. After administering naloxone, monitor breathing closely and be prepared for additional dosing or rescue breathing per protocol.