For an adult patient in respiratory arrest suspected of opioid overdose, what should be done?

In the scenario of an adult patient in respiratory arrest suspected of opioid overdose, administering naloxone is a critical intervention. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioids, particularly respiratory depression, which is often a consequence of an overdose. By administering naloxone, you are addressing the underlying cause of the respiratory arrest, which is the opioid effect on the central nervous system.

Following naloxone administration, it’s vital to monitor the patient closely for responsiveness and breathing. If the patient does not respond, additional airway management and rescue breaths should be provided as needed, alongside calling for emergency medical services.

While providing chest compressions or ventilating without checking a pulse could be necessary in certain circumstances, they don't directly address the suspected cause of the respiratory arrest in this particular situation. Continuing ventilations without reassessment also may not allow timely adjustment of care based on the patient's response to the interventions. Therefore, administering naloxone is the most appropriate initial action when an opioid overdose is suspected.