From salt injection to naloxone : accuracy and myths in peer resuscitation methods for opiate overdose

BESWICK, T., BEST, David, BEARN, J., REES, S., GOSSOP, M., COOMBER, R. and STRANG, J. (2002). From salt injection to naloxone : accuracy and myths in peer resuscitation methods for opiate overdose. Journal of Drug Issues, 32 (4), 1103-1114.

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Official URL: http://jod.sagepub.com/content/32/4/1103
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1177/002204260203200406

Abstract

One hundred and eight opiate addicts attending an in-patient opiate treatment unit were interviewed, using a mixed quantitative-qualitative approach, to investigate their experiences of witnessing overdoses, the associated interpretations and perceived cause of the overdose. Poly drug use and frequency of witnessed overdose was high among the sample. Use of 14 different combinations of drugs were reported, 8 of which involved the use of alcohol, and 7 benzodiazepines. Perceived cause of overdose involved attributions relating to the use of alcohol, in particular strong lager, small quantities of heroin and low levels of current opiate tolerance. Peer initiated resuscitation techniques revealed a range of responses from the probably valuable (recovery position, summon ambulance, administer naloxone) to the ineffective or frankly harmful (injecting with salt solution, immersing in a cold bath). The findings highlight the need for an overdose prevention program during in-patient detoxification and rehabilitation.

Item Type: Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Law Research Group
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1177/002204260203200406
Page Range: 1103-1114
Depositing User: Hilary Ridgway
Date Deposited: 23 Jan 2015 10:40
Last Modified: 18 Mar 2021 09:30
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/9239

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