Final answer:
When responding to an opioid overdose, move the person to the floor before administering naloxone or performing CPR. High-quality CPR on a firm surface is crucial and should continue until help arrives or the patient recovers. For choking infants and adults, initial steps differ before CPR might be required.
Step-by-step explanation:
When encountering a person who has overdosed on opioids, it is often necessary to administer naloxone (Narcan) to reverse the effects. If the person is unconscious and not breathing, you may need to perform CPR as well. Before administering naloxone or CPR, if the person is on a bed or an unstable surface, it's important to move them to the floor to provide a firm surface that facilitates effective chest compressions.
In cases where an individual is found in a car or an uncomfortable position, the first step is to move them to a safer, more stable location if possible. For administering naloxone, you do not need the person to be on the ground. However, if CPR is required, they need to be in a supine position on a firm surface for the compressions to be effective. Always make sure the scene is safe for both the rescuer and the victim before administering aid.
If you encounter a choking infant, you might need to turn the baby upside down and give back slaps, while for an older person, encouraging them to cough or administering the Heimlich maneuver could be necessary. These are preliminary steps before possibly needing to perform CPR if the person becomes unresponsive.
Everyday Connection: CPR
The necessity of performing high-quality chest compressions during CPR is emphasized to ensure blood flow, particularly to the brain. Compressions should be at least 5 cm deep and at a rate of 100 per minute. CPR should continue until professional help arrives or the patient shows signs of recovery.