In 2024, there were over 79,000 overdose fatalities in the United States. An overdose occurs whenever a person consumes a drug in a larger quantity than recommended, causing respiratory distress, health complications, and in some cases, death. Given the drug crisis that our nation is currently experiencing, being informed can empower you to make wise choices. In this blog, our defense attorneys discuss what steps you should take if someone has overdosed.
Signs of an Overdose
Common signs of an overdose include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of consciousness
- Pinpoint (small) pupils
- Unresponsiveness to loud noise or painful stimuli
- Difficulty breathing
- Respiratory arrest (completely stopping breathing)
- Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
- Blue or purple lips or fingertips
If a family member, friend, or colleague is exhibiting any of these symptoms, take the following steps:
Try to Stimulate the Person
An overdose can happen when you least expect it, whether it be at home, school, or work. If you notice someone is not breathing or is unresponsive, you should yell their name or say, “I am going to call 911,” to stimulate them verbally. If this does not work, try rubbing your knuckles aggressively on their sternum to arouse them.
Other types of physical stimulation include rubbing your knuckles on their upper lip or pinching the back of their arm. If the person is still unresponsive, check for a pulse. If there is no pulse, you should begin chest compressions. Chest compressions should be administered at 100 to 120 beats per minute, like the beat of “Stayin’ Alive.”
Call 911
If the person cannot be readily stimulated, you should still call for medical assistance. Emergency medical personnel will check the person’s vitals and assess their overall condition to determine if they are at risk of developing heart problems, pneumonia, or any other complications. Be sure to tell the 911 dispatcher whether the person is breathing or in respiratory distress, whether they are responsive, and your exact location.
Often, those at the scene of an overdose are afraid to call 911 since they are afraid of police involvement. However, a caregiver who administers Narcan or any opioid antidote, believing that the person is experiencing an overdose, is immune from civil or criminal liability. Known as the South Carolina Overdose Prevention Act, this law seeks to limit overdose fatalities by ensuring that individuals who render aid will not face prosecution.
Administer Narcan
If you have Narcan on hand, administer one dose every two to three minutes. Narcan may be injected intramuscularly or through a nasal spray. It is recommended that you inject the entire contents of the vial into the upper thigh. If administered nasally, place the plunger all the way up one nostril and press it firmly to deliver a dose.
Greenville Drug Charge Defense Attorneys Providing Aggressive Representation
Facing allegations of wrongdoing following a friend’s or family member’s overdose can be terrifying. If you are concerned that you may face legal consequences following a potential drug overdose, you should speak with our experienced defense attorney. At Eppes & Plumblee, we advocate for those individuals who are at the scene of an overdose, being sure to establish their lack of culpability. To arrange your confidential consultation, contact us online or by phone at (864) 581-3450 today.