Be Careful with Fentanyl but Don’t Be Afraid to Treat
The Media, and now TV shows & movies, are representing any response from First Responders (EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement) as at risk for their own overdoses, should they even be in proximity to fentanyl. This is partly due to the fact that there are reports of First Responders becoming symptomatic when on the scene where fentanyl is suspected or found, sometimes delaying critical patient care.
This article looks at the current literature and expert guidance to explore the actual continuum of risk, based on the scene (fentanyl clandestine lab vs patient on the ground with little fentanyl seen) and circumstances. It all comes down to diligent risk assessment and using appropriate PPE for the risk category and role at the scene.
Links to Guidance and Expert Opinion are included in the article with more being included in the sub-document Resources & Links.
