Final answer:
The risk of touching someone who may have overdosed on fentanyl includes possible exposure to the drug itself, which is highly potent, and the associated risk of respiratory depression and overdose. There is also a risk of exposure to bodily fluids that could contain infectious diseases or other harmful substances. Wearing protective gloves and taking other precautions is essential to avoid accidental exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concern of touching someone who is overdosing on a substance like fentanyl is based on the potential for accidental exposure to this highly potent opioid. Fentanyl is known to be 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, and exposure to even a small amount can result in an overdose which can depress respiratory function and potentially lead to death. Programs like naloxone distribution have been introduced to help reverse opioid overdoses quickly and save lives, as naloxone can help the person wake up and keep breathing until emergency medical treatment is available.
There is also a risk of contact with bodily fluids that may be contaminated with fentanyl or infectious diseases like HIV, particularly if needle sharing has occurred. Protective measures such as wearing gloves and other barrier precautions are important when coming into contact with anyone suspected of an overdose, and one should avoid any direct skin contact with the person's bodily fluids or unknown substances.