If you need to administer first aid if an overdose is suspected:
- Check the patient's airway, breathing, and pulse. If necessary, begin CPR. If the patient is unconscious but breathing, carefully place him or her in the recovery position. If the patient is conscious, loosen the clothing, keep the person warm, and provide reassurance. Try to keep the patient calm. If an overdose is suspected, try to prevent the patient from taking more drugs. Call for immediate medical assistance.
- Treat the patient for signs of shock, if necessary. Signs include: weakness, bluish lips and fingernails, clammy skin, paleness, and decreasing alertness.
- If the patient is having seizures, give convulsion first aid.
- Keep monitoring the patient's vital signs (pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) until emergency medical help arrives.
- If possible, try to determine which drug(s) were taken and when. Save any available pill bottles or other drug containers. Provide this information to emergency medical personnel.(2)
DO NOT
- Do NOT jeopardize your own safety. Some drugs can cause violent and unpredictable behavior. Call for professional assistance.
- Do NOT try to reason with someone who is on drugs. Do not expect them to behave reasonably.
- Do NOT offer your opinions when giving help. You do not need to know why drugs were taken in order to give effective first aid.(3)
