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Opioid overdose — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateToxicologyOpioid overdoseRCPSC EM

After reversal of opioid toxicity, a patient has been observed without recurrent sedation, has normal room-air oxygen saturation, normal vital signs and can mobilise normally. What discharge intervention is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: D — Provide take-home naloxone and linkage to addiction care

The best answer is “Provide take-home naloxone and linkage to addiction care”. A patient may be discharged only after sustained recovery and assessment of safety. Canadian ED guidance recommends offering take-home naloxone, harm-reduction supplies and connection to treatment services. These interventions address recurrent overdose risk; flumazenil and induced emesis are unsafe or ineffective responses to future opioid toxicity.

Reference: Emergency Care BC: Opioid Poisoning—In-Hospital Management: https://emergencycarebc.ca/clinical_resource/clinical-summary/opioid-poisoning-in-hospital-management/