Health Professionals
Health professionals and service providers have an important role to play in harm reduction. This area contains resources and other information to help those on the front line and beyond.
Information Sheets
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Naloxone
Busting Naloxone Myths
Common myths about Naloxone are busted in this resource for harm reduction coordinators.
Product Monograph - PDF
This document contains product information about the naloxone dispensed by the BC Take Home Naloxone and Facility Overdose Response Box programs.
Naloxone and Temperature - PDF
This information provides information about naloxone exposure to heat and cold as well as storage temperature recommendations.
Naloxone Use in Pregnancy - PDF
Opioid overdose can cause anoxic brain damage and death. Administration of naloxone to a pregnant woman can save the lives of the mother and fetus. This information sheet addreses concerns about using naloxone in pregnancy.
Naloxone Use in Children - PDF
Death from unintentional drug overdose in children is preventable. Naloxone administration can save the life of a child and is safe. This information sheet addresses concerns about giving children naloxone.
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Syringes
Single Use Syringes - PDF
This document addresses common concerns expressed in regards to the use of single-use syringes in the community.
Distribution Vs Exchange - PDF
This document summarizes why the BC Harm Reduction program follows a policy of needle distribution rather than one-for-one needle exchange.
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Why Give Breaths?
Why Give Breaths? - PDF
Opioid overdose is one of a number of special situations where the American Heart Association recommends a different approach than only chest compressions. This information sheet provides information on the importance of giving breaths when responding to an opiod overdose.
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Fentanyl
Fentanyl-Induced Muscle Rigidity - PDF
Fentanyl-induced muscle rigidity, also known as “chest wall rigidity” and "wooden chest syndrome" is a complication of intravenous injection of fentanyl that has been recognized in the induction of anesthesia in hospital populations. This document provides a background as well as recommendations for by-standers as well as recommendations for safer substance use.
- Overdose Survival Guide
Best Practice, Policies and Procedures
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Guidelines and Recommendations
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Overdose Prevention Sites
Engaging in Overdose Prevention Conversations
Developed by Fraser Health, this resources provides some key considerations regarding conversations about overdose prevention.
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Communicating Drug Alerts
Communicating Drug Alerts
Health service providers communicate drug alerts when there is evidence to suggest an adulterated drug or drug of elevated potency is in circulation.
For futher information about communicating drug alerts, visit the BCCDC website.
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Peer Engagement
Presentation: Peer Engagement in Harm Reduction
Peer Engagement in Harm Reduction: Development, implementation & evaluation of the Peer Engagement Best Practice Guidelines for BC Health Authorities.
Reports and Research
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Reports
THN Evaluation Report - to July 2016
Overdose Recognition and Response in the BC Take Home Naloxone Program.
Review of data up to July 2016THN Evaluation Report - to March 2015
Overdose Recognition and Response in the BC Take Home Naloxone Program.
Review of data up to March 2015
Updates for Health Professionals
