Prevention to Protection: Strategies for Naloxone Distribution and Overdose Education in a Community Shelter

Abstract

Community shelters serve a vulnerable population at heightened risk of opioid overdose. Providing shelter staff and residents with naloxone, an overdose reversal medication, and comprehensive overdose education is crucial for saving lives. This project outlines strategies for implementing a robust naloxone distribution and overdose education program within a community shelter. The project discusses the benefits of naloxone distribution and education in community shelters, offering best practices and protocols for such programs. It explores practical strategies for program implementation, including staff training, resident education methods, and harm reduction messaging. Considerations of overcoming potential challenges and ensuring program sustainability are also addressed. The pre-education and post-education surveys indicate that opioid overdose and naloxone education significantly increased overall knowledge and individual survey scores. A well-designed naloxone distribution and education program can empower shelter staff and residents to respond effectively to opioid overdoses. This intervention has the potential to significantly reduce overdose fatalities within the shelter community. By adopting a "prevention to protection" approach, community shelters can become safer spaces, equipped to prevent opioid overdose tragedies, and empower residents to take charge of their well-being.