Opioid crisis preparedness
In the past 20 years, the fentanyl epidemic has markedly expanded. Both the “Just Say No” and “D.A.R.E.” educational models from the past are inadequate to meet our societal needs. While preventing drug use is the ideal, the reality is that some people will continue to use drugs. Increased awareness and understanding of drug addiction are needed across all age brackets and socioeconomic groups in order to alter the trajectory of this epidemic. The Sesame Workshop (also known as Sesame Street), in response to increased need, has made available multiple free downloadable videos to facilitate discussion with young children about addiction. If we have the capability to educate young children about drug use, we should also age-appropriately educate teens, their teachers and school staff about drug use, including how to recognize signs of an overdose and what to do until help arrives.
The Minnesota Department of Health claims that “widespread naloxone availability is a key response” to the epidemic that we are experiencing. The Minnesota Legislature is pondering whether to make a supply of naloxone mandatory in schools. This would be wise because, according to the National Library of Medicine, “nearly three-fourths of individuals admitted to opioid use disorder treatment first used opioids before their 26th birthday.”
Naloxone does nothing, however, without someone capable of administering it. As a high school student, I decided to interview my grade dean regarding my school’s preparedness for an opioid overdose. In our interview, he stated that my school has no specific plan for an overdose emergency beyond calling 911. He also reported that my school does not carry a supply of naloxone and that he is not aware of any staff that have been trained to administer it.
Educating people about opioid overdose is a controversial topic, however, I believe that it should not be. The first two to three minutes after a person begins overdosing are crucial; the CDC advises to “not wait for emergency workers to arrive before giving naloxone” because EMS are often too late. Schools should develop and implement an emergency protocol for suspected opioid overdoses and identify staff that should be trained in Overdose Lifeline’s $30 online “School Naloxone Opioid Overdose Training.” The Legislature should provide financial assistance to schools for this important public health measure, especially given the current budget surplus.
Katie Lattin
Student at The Blake School
