What Happens When First Responders Arrive?

When paramedics arrive at a suspected overdose scene, they first assess the situation.
This step is important on every call. At a suspected overdose scene, paramedics must consider many factors, including the safety of the patient, bystanders, their colleagues and themselves. If they administer naloxone, they must also be prepared to manage complications such as acute withdrawal syndrome.

You will not get in trouble for calling 9-1-1 for a suspected overdose. Dispatchers and paramedics are there to help, so please do not hesitate to call.

Once paramedics determine the scene is safe, they will:
  1. Check whether the patient responds to sound, such as questions or hand clapping
  2. If there is no response, check whether the patient responds to pain to help assess their level of consciousness
  3. if the patient remains unconscious, provide ventilation support
  4. Administer naloxone
  5. Stabilize the patient and transport them to hospital