LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 30, 2015) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department is offering naloxone training to community members who may be able to save the life of someone experiencing breathing problems from opioid overdose. These classes are provided through Maryland’s Overdose Response Program.
Naloxone is a prescription medication that is used to reverse an opioid overdose. Opioids include heroin and prescription pain medications such as hydrocodone, methadone, morphine, and oxycodone.
Individuals who successfully complete the two-hour training curriculum will receive a certificate allowing them to obtain and have filled a prescription for naloxone. So far, 145 County law enforcement officials and 60 community members have received naloxone training through the Overdose Response Program. The training is meant for adults who are more likely to be in a setting where they could help someone experiencing opioid overdose when emergency medical services are not immediately available. This could include concerned parents, caregivers, and others whose social, occupational, volunteer, or family experience might lead to a situation where they could help restore the breathing of someone who has overdosed on opioids.
Participants in the training will learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose, the importance of calling 9-1-1 in medical emergencies, as well as how to administer naloxone and care for someone until emergency help arrives.
This program is free; however, registration is required. Classes have been scheduled for the following dates and times:
- August 3, 2015 (5:30 –7:30 p.m.) at the Beacon of Hope
- August 7, 2015 (1:00 – 3:00 p.m.) at the St. Mary’s County Health Department
- September 17, 2015 (1:00 – 3:00 p.m.) at the St. Mary’s County Health Department
- September 28, 2015 (5:30 – 7:30 p.m.) at the St. Mary’s County Health Department
- October 7, 2015 (1:00 – 3:00 p.m.) at the St. Mary’s County Health Department
To learn more about the Overdose Response Program and to register for a class, please visit www.smchd.org/overdose.
For further information about naloxone training, please contact Jenna Mulliken at jenna.mulliken@maryland.gov or at 301-475-4323.
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