Administration (911 system) vs Dispensing (Public Health delegated)

Naloxone may be given by paramedics in 2 distinct ways:​

• Administration in the setting of the Opioid Toxicity and Withdrawal Medical Directive ​
  • Part of the 911 System​
• Dispensing Naloxone kits to help treat future opioid overdoses​
  • NOT part of the 911 system

The Opioid Toxicity and Withdrawal Medical Directive - Does not indicate/authorize dispensing of EMS Naloxone in the case of patients regaining consciousness and refusing transport.​​

Public Health Naloxone Kits for dispensing - Should a Paramedic Service have an agreement with their Local Public Health Services to dispense Naloxone Kits ie. Community Paramedicine Programs/ Refusal of Service. Paramedics will be authorized to do so under their services direction.

Summary

It is possible that you as a paramedic may be able to give Naloxone to patients in 2 ways​

1. Administration for suspected overdose via the 911 (Delegated by your Base Hospital)​
2. Dispensing Naloxone kits for prevention of future overdoses (Delegated by your Local Public Health Department)

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