A nasal spray in the first aid kit could reverse an overdose
Bayside Health is urging Bass Coast and South Gippsland households to keep free naloxone at home ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday
BAYSIDE Health Regional operations director Rebecca Scott is urging households across Bass Coast and South Gippsland to keep naloxone in the first aid kit at home or in the car because early intervention in a drug overdose can save lives.
Naloxone temporarily reverses an opioid overdose and it is free and available without a prescription from pharmacies taking part in the Federal Government’s Take Home Naloxone program.
The call comes ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday August 31 which this year carries the theme ‘25 Years On. Still Needed’.
“Naloxone is a free, easy-to-use medication that can help temporarily reverse an opioid overdose,” Ms Scott said.
“It’s a nasal spray and you don’t need medical training to administer it.
“It’s safe to use even if you’re unsure someone has taken opioids.
“Before you administer naloxone, please call 000 immediately as naloxone only lasts for 30-90 minutes and signs of opioid overdose may be something else.”
Signs of an opioid overdose can include a person who is unconscious or unresponsive or who is having breathing difficulties.
“Drug overdose can happen to anyone.
“By speaking openly about drug addiction, learning from each other, and treating each other with care and respect, we can help to save lives,” Ms Scott said.
Kooweerup Hospital youth and community development officer Brian Harlow said family and community connections were a major part of recovery for a person with a substance abuse disorder.
“This requires education of the family and community, so they understand their vital role in recovery.
“Drug use often creates social isolation and often it’s when the community steps in that recovery can begin,” Mr Harlow said.
Aimee Morrison is an alcohol and other drugs withdrawal registered nurse at Leongatha Memorial Hospital and Korumburra Hospital.
“Recovery begins with courage, but it is strengthened by a community that replaces judgement with understanding, stigma with compassion, and isolation with connection,” Ms Morrison said.
Information on the alcohol and other drugs treatment programs run by Bayside Health Regional at Wonthaggi Hospital, Phillip Island Community Hospital, Leongatha Memorial Hospital and Korumburra Hospital is at baysidehealth.org.au.
Anyone wanting to speak to an alcohol and other drugs worker about naloxone and where to get it can phone Wonthaggi Hospital reception on 5671 3333.
Mr Harlow offers alcohol and drug support for young people at Kooweerup Hospital on 5997 9687.
Anyone seeking help for alcohol and drug use or addiction can phone the Australian Community Support Organisation on 1300 022 760 for an intake and assessment and a referral to the right service.
