Naloxone in opioid dependence — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: C — Titrate naloxone to restore adequate breathing rather than full alertness

Titrate naloxone to restore adequate breathing rather than full alertness is the best answer because titrated naloxone reduces severe withdrawal while correcting respiratory depression. Give aspirin 300 mg for traumatic pain is less appropriate because antiplatelet therapy does not treat traumatic haemorrhage or pain; Give intramuscular morphine 20 mg as a fixed dose is less appropriate because fixed intramuscular opioid dosing is poorly titratable. Give nebulised salbutamol as first-line trauma therapy and Give oral medication and reassess at hospital are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines