On OD Awareness Day - August 31, 2012 - we launched the BC Take Home Naloxone (THN) Program webpage. The new naloxone section on our website includes: frequently asked questions (FAQs), program implementation guidelines, training manual and resources (including videos), program administration information forms, and much more.
How to Take Part in the BC Pilot Program
Like other THN programs in the world, we aim to provide people who use opioids the opportunity to prevent an overdose and reduce harm in emergency situations. The program empowers people by training them about how to prevent an overdose, identify symptoms of an overdose, and respond to an overdose including the administration of naloxone. Distributing the kits requires the collaboration of: an educator to conduct the training session, a physician or nurse practitioner to prescribe naloxone, a person to dispense the kits, and a coordinator to follow up with the BCCDC Harm Reduction Program team. However, an individual health care professional may take on more than one of these roles.
If your community or healthcare service would like to take part, please spend some time reviewing the “Understanding THN” and “Participant Training” resources on TowardtheHeart.com/Naloxone, such as the Program Guide, Participant Training Manual, and the Webinar for Service Providers (featured at top of the page).
Findings from the BC THN Program
The BC THN program is a pilot study and thus far has given out 350 kits across the province to three organizations in Vancouver Coastal Health, and three organizations in Interior Health. 100 of these kits are in the hands of people who use opioids. To date, the BC THN program has had eight overdose reversals! Northern Health Authority has also started to plan their THN programs and discussions are taking place in Vancouver Island Health Authority and Fraser Health Authority.
Contact the BC Harm Reduction Program to discuss becoming a THN site and getting approval from your health authority OR finding a THN site near you! E-mail outreach@towardtheheart.com.
Naloxone Administration is Childs Play
Have you ever seen a friend or family member respond to an opioid overdose? Want to get an idea of how naloxone can save a life in just a few minutes? Injecting Advice has released this video called: Naloxone administration is childs play. Watch to learn more.
