Likewise’s Naloxone training and kit used to save a life
Naloxone Training Helps Save a Life
Recently, a professional who attended a Likewise naloxone conference and received both training and a naloxone kit used it to help save someone’s life.
Magdalena Boo, Head of Public Health at Leeds City Council and a PhD researcher, was on her morning commute through Leeds Train Station when she came across an unconscious man with a head injury. After trying to wake him, she realised he was “breathing and warm, but his eyes had rolled back.”
Another member of the public stopped to help and called 999 while Magdalena stayed with the man. Drawing on the training she had received from Likewise, she recognised the signs of a possible opioid overdose, including unresponsiveness and changes in his level of consciousness. Fortunately, she had a naloxone nasal spray in her bag and administered the first dose.
“I waited a few minutes – a very long few minutes – shook his shoulder and called to him, but there was no response. I gave him the second dose. Still no response.”
Just as the ambulance arrived, the man opened his eyes and regained consciousness.
“He was able to stand up and walk away,” Magdalena said, before being cared for by the attending paramedics.
The paramedics were incredibly appreciative that Magdalena had administered naloxone before they arrived.
“It was lucky I had my big bag that day and had this life-saving medication with me.”
Reflecting on the experience, Magdalena said she was surprised by how quickly everything had happened.
“It seemed incredible that so much had happened in about 15 minutes. This life-saving medication gives people a chance to live another day. I’m so grateful to Likewise Sheffield for training me. I now need to restock.”
Stories like Magdalena’s highlight just how important naloxone training can be. Recognising the signs of an opioid overdose and knowing how to respond can give someone the chance to survive until emergency services arrive.
A huge thank you to Magdalena for putting her training into action and carrying naloxone. Her quick thinking and willingness to act gave someone another chance at life.
Filed under: News