Nursing, health informatics, and paramedic roles in prehospital management of overdose cases: Opioids and beyond

https://doi.org/10.53730/ijhs.v3nS1.15211

Authors

  • Saleh AbdulLatif Al-Jasser KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Nawaf Subhi Dobayan Alenazi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Fares Khalid Mohammed Alhazmi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Ahmad Mohammed Isa Gaddourah KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Alaa Saud Aleiid KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Alaa Musaad Alsayyari KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Sulaiman Salem Alhuwayrini KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Mohannad Ali Almusallam KSA, National Guard Health Affairs

Keywords:

Opioids, overdose, paramedics, nursing, emergency medical services, pain management, opioid use disorder

Abstract

Background: The opioid crisis has intensified, leading to numerous fatalities and heightened public health concerns regarding the management of overdose cases. The multifaceted challenges posed by opioid misuse and addiction necessitate a comprehensive approach involving paramedics, emergency medical services (EMS), and nursing professionals. Aim: This study aims to explore the roles of emergency medical services, health informatics, nursing and paramedic personnel in the prehospital management of overdose cases, focusing on opioids and other substances. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, synthesizing relevant literature on the prehospital management strategies employed by paramedics and nurses in cases of opioid overdose. Key interventions, risk factors, and outcomes were analyzed to identify best practices in the field. Results: Findings reveal that both nursing and paramedic roles are critical in addressing overdose cases. Paramedics provide immediate life-saving interventions, including the administration of naloxone, while nursing staff play a vital role in patient assessment and follow-up care. Collaborative efforts enhance patient outcomes and reduce the risk of future overdoses. Conclusion: The involvement of nursing and paramedic professionals in the prehospital management of overdose cases is essential in mitigating the opioid crisis. 

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Published

15-01-2019

How to Cite

Al-Jasser, S. A., Alenazi, N. S. D., Alhazmi, F. K. M., Gaddourah, A. M. I., Aleiid, A. S., Alsayyari, A. M., Alhuwayrini, S. S., & Almusallam, M. A. (2019). Nursing, health informatics, and paramedic roles in prehospital management of overdose cases: Opioids and beyond. International Journal of Health Sciences, 3(S1), 318–335. https://doi.org/10.53730/ijhs.v3nS1.15211

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