On a daily basis, people across the United States are suffering from opioid use disorder and, on some dangerous occasions, will fall victim to a deadly opioid overdose (thanks to the toxic presence of the Opioid Crisis). Ultimately, if the situation is controlled in time, medical professionals can administer a shot of naloxone and save the patient’s life. Still, how long is this victim supposed to remain in the hospital? After all, overdoses are life-threatening events that should not be taken light. Interestingly, new research indicates that victims of opioid overdoses do not require long-term hospitalization, as you may have initially believed. In fact, these men and women only need to stay in hospitals for an hour to receive proper treatment. Let’s take a closer look at the situation and find out more information.
More Power to You
Keep in mind that the criteria for patient release is based on three factors (pulse, blood pressure, and breathing), and, remarkably, opioid patients who meet these criteria can walk out of hospitals immediately after treatment. Overall, Dr. Brian Clemency (associate professor of emergency medicine at University of Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences) explains that these events are greatly due to the transforming studies of opioid use disorder. Initially used as an emergency tool by doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, naloxone is now fully available to the public and can be administered as a nasal spray (Narcan). Now, the power is in the public’s hands.
One-Hour Rule
To determine the proper release period for patients, Dr. Clemency and his team assessed about 540 patients who were transported via ambulance to the hospital and received naloxone. After receiving an evaluation of vitals, the patients received 4-hour assessments. However, Clemency argues that patients who experienced severe side effects but still retained normal vitals were not in any danger. Ultimately, the “one-hour rule” is simply put in place to ensure patients do not undergo additional reactions prior to their release.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
