When you suspect an opioid overdose, which resource should you request immediately along with EMS?

When faced with a suspected opioid overdose, the immediate priority is to reverse the effects of the opioids and restore normal breathing in the patient. Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly counteract the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids do, thereby displacing them and counteracting their effects. Administering Naloxone can provide critical time for emergency medical services (EMS) to arrive and deliver further treatment.

While other resources, such as a medication chart, patient history report, or an ambulance van, may be useful in managing the situation, Naloxone directly addresses the immediate threat posed by the overdose. The quick action of providing Naloxone can be life-saving, making it the most appropriate resource to request alongside EMS in this scenario.