NORTH COAST EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES Policy # 5311

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Subject: Medical Direction

Associated Policies: 01/10/98

1. Class:

1. Narcotic antagonist.

II. Indications:

1. Narcotic overdose
2. Altered level of consciousness or unconsciousness of unknown etiology.

III. Therapeutic Effect:

1. Reverses action of narcotic drugs.

4. Contraindications:

1. Absolute:

1. None.

1. Relative:

1. Use caution in depressed neonate with suspected narcotic exposure. May precipitate seizures.

5. Adverse Effects:

1. May cause acute withdrawal symptoms.
2. Tachycardia.
3. Hypertension.
4. Dysrhythmias.
5. Nausea and vomiting.

6. Administration and Dosage:

1. Adult: 1.0 mg to 2.0 mg IV, IM, ET, or PVP, may repeat as needed. ET doses 2- to 2.5 times normal dose.
2. Pediatric: 0.2 mg/ kg to a maximum dose of 2.0 mg, IV, IM, IO or ET.
3. Neonate: 0.1 mg/ kg IV, IM, IO, or ET.

VII. Special Information:

1. duration of the action of Naloxone is shorter than the duration of narcotics, repeated doses may be necessary.