Post-Overdose Response
You Are Protected
In nearly all states, the liability risk is further reduced by laws that provide justice professionals with additional layers of protection from lawsuits. An overdose Good Samaritan Law exists in 49 states and the District of Columbia (Wyoming excluded). The specific application of the policies varies by state; however, in general the law provides protections for individuals who call for emergency assistance in the event of a drug overdose. https://legislativeanalysis.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Good-Samaritan-Fatal-Overdose-Prevention-Summary-of-State-Laws.pdf
In addition, all 50 states have passed naloxone access laws that shield “any person” from civil and criminal liability if they administer naloxone. Such immunity applies to law enforcement officers as well as other professional responders who administer naloxone in good faith.
An important part of the continuum of care for overdose response and prevention is providing follow-up care to individuals who have overdosed and their families. Follow-up services promote linkages to substance use treatment services and recovery supports and remove barriers to accessing these services.
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After-care
Once a person has been revived by the administration of naloxone, they may begin to experience signs of withdrawal. These could include fast heart rate, runny nose, restlessness, nervousness, irritability, body aches, diarrhea, sweating, opioid craving, dilated pupils, abdominal cramps, tearing, weakness, or increased blood pressure. While very uncomfortable, these symptoms are not often life-threatening. At this point, it is very important to help the individual access treatment to lessen their likelihood of using opioids to manage the withdrawal symptoms. -
Connect to treatment resources
After an overdose, not only is a person in need of medical care, but they can be more motivated to seek treatment. -
Peer support services
Peer recovery specialists play an important role in supporting an individual after an overdose and throughout the recovery process. A person with lived experience is uniquely equipped to help someone navigate the system of care while providing one-on-one support. -
Housing considerations
If an individual refuses to seek treatment or is unable to enter a facility immediately, it is important to ensure that they have a safe-housing option. Identify and connect the person with local housing resources in the community. - Role of first responders
EMS and other first responders are often first on the scene of an overdose and are able to create a calm and supportive environment for the individual. In many cases, first responders have access to treatment facilities, clinicians, nonprofit entities, and peer recovery specialists and are more quickly able to connect people to these services. Some EMS personnel are utilizing Naloxone Leave Behind kits as another resource for individuals.
