This patient education tool, created by the Wright County Opioid Action Team, is designed to equip patients with general knowledge of opioids and encourage them to take an active role in their pain management. The tool is intended to be used alongside patients by primary care physicians, surgeons, nurses, and other health professionals. 

Understanding the medication being prescribed is a critical piece in ensuring proper use, disposal, recognizing signs of dependence, and preventing abuse. 

For many, the Emergency Department is their point of entry to the healthcare system so handout was created to equip department staff with a tool to give patients and their families as a general explanation of opioids, the risk they pose if not taken properly, overdose potential, addiction resources, and more.

It may take several conversations, offers of help, and attempts at treatment before a life in recovery is successful.

Proper disposal of unused, unwanted, and expired medications is a great way to keep medications from getting into the wrong hands. There is mixed messaging on what to do with unused or expired prescription and non-prescription medications so this tool provides consistent messaging and can be displayed at any community organization.

The disposal sites within Wright County are also listed so community members can locate the closest site to them for easier access.

Recognizing the signs of drug use and potential overdose may be the difference between saving a life and losing a loved one.

During an overdose, its important to recognize the symptoms, have the skills and knowledge of how to respond, and understand the explain the safeguards in place to ensure no legal action is taken on the individual overdosing and the person responding.

Learn what to do if you are faced with a possible opioid overdose.

Opioid overdoses can occur from prescriptions you get from a doctor and non-prescription drugs.

Many Minnesota pharmacies provide naloxone through a standing order, meaning you can get the medication without a doctor’s prescription. Your health insurance may pay for the medication or it can be paid for with cash.

Preventing an overdose can save a life, but knowing what to do if the situation arises is equally as important. There are many steps a person can take to prevent an overdose; this educational tools helps highlight those. 

Key points on this educational tool are how to obtain Naloxone, using one substance at a time, understanding tolerance and drug half-life, the dangers of some prescription medications, the importance of proper storage, and more.

Sharp instruments, such as needles and syringes, may be used in households to deliver medication and other necessary medical products. Proper disposal of these sharps is essential to preserve the safety of individuals receiving care, their family members, service workers, and the environment.

When you are hosting a party, such as a graduation celebration, a sleepover, or a birthday party, it is important to stay safe and legal while enjoying your time with friends and family. This handout includes tips to prevent underage alcohol use before, during, and after parties. 

Spanish Materials

Cada año, mueren más de 400 minesotanos por una sobredosis relacionada a los opioides. El uso apropiado podría ser la diferencia entre una recuperación más rápida y la adicción.

Acerca de los opioides recetados; Los opioides recetados tratan con eficacia el dolor de moderado a intenso bloqueando las señales nerviosas de dolor que el cerebro le envía al cuerpo.

Los opioides pueden ser adictivos. Los opioides pueden ser peligrosos, pueden causar dependencia.

 

 

Aprenda cómo el uso adecuado puede ser la diferencia entre una recuperación rápida y la adicción.

Si usted o un ser querido experimentan dependencia con su medicamento, ¡HAY AYUDA!

Señales de potencial dependencia: Sentirse ansioso, siempre pensando el la siguiente dosis o con temor de que su receta se agote. Tomar más medicamento de lo recetado.

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Los medicamentos sobrantes o vencidos son un problema de seguridad pública, ya que pueden generar intoxicación accidental, sobredosis y abusos. Cuando se toman sin una receta o sin seguir las indicaciones, los medicamentos recetados pueden ser tan peligrosos como las drogas de abuso.

Descargar los medicamentos sobrantes en la red de agua podría contaminar el suministro. Al desecharlos de manera apropiada, salva vidas y contribuye al cuidado del medio ambiente.