Standardizing Overdose Education for Patients Receiving Naloxone

Naloxone is one of the most effective medications for preventing opioid overdose deaths. Over the past decade, every state has expanded access to naloxone through standing orders, pharmacy dispensing, or coprescribing laws. However, access alone is not enough. Many patients receive naloxone without learning how to recognize an overdose, administer the medication, perform rescue breathing, or know when to call emergency medical services. A standardized approach would improve patient preparedness while creating greater consistency across hospitals and pharmacies.