7561E Management of Opioid Use Disorder in the Hospitalized Adolescent: Tips for the Pediatric Nurse-Conversation Starter Talking with Patients

Conversation Starter Talking with Patients

Pdf Summary

This guide offers clinicians practical steps for discussing naloxone, an opioid overdose-reversal medication, with patients prescribed opioids, their family members, and caregivers.<br /><br />**Step 1: Initiate the Conversation**  <br />Clinicians should express concern for the patient’s safety, addressing the risks associated with opioid use, which can result in slowed or stopped breathing. Engaging family and friends in the discussion is recommended. Clinicians should explain how to recognize signs of an opioid overdose, the use of naloxone, and where to obtain it.<br /><br />**Step 2: Emphasize Naloxone's Importance**  <br />Highlight that naloxone can save lives by quickly restoring normal breathing to individuals overdosing on opioids, including prescription medications, heroin, or fentanyl-contaminated drugs. Clinicians should be knowledgeable about naloxone's various forms (nasal spray, injection, auto-injection) and educate patients on their usage. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit is a valuable resource.<br /><br />**Pre-conversation Preparation**  <br />Before engaging in dialogue, clinicians should familiarize themselves with naloxone's different forms and administration methods.<br /><br />**Step 3: Address Concerns and Questions**  <br />Clinicians should listen attentively to patient concerns, asking open-ended questions to facilitate detailed responses. The conversation should be patient-centered and collaborative to enhance motivation and minimize stigma. Clinicians are advised to use non-stigmatizing language (e.g., "prescription opioids" instead of "painkillers") to foster a supportive environment.<br /><br />Additional Resources:  <br />Refer to CDC's website for more information on overdose prevention and naloxone toolkits. Terms to be mindful of when discussing opioids and addiction can also be found from credible sources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <br /><br />By following these steps, clinicians can improve patient communication and support around naloxone, potentially saving lives.

Keywords

naloxone

opioid overdose

clinicians

patient safety

opioid use

overdose prevention

SAMHSA

opioid addiction

naloxone administration

CDC resources