Knowing what to do in an emergency, especially in relation to the use of drugs, could save life.
Due to the nature of drug misuse it would be easy to overdose; this is particularly relevant to users of illegal drugs where there is no guaranteed outcome due to unpredictable dosage and the possibility that more than one drug has been taken.
Preparing for an emergency situation
If you have a family member, carer or friend, who misuses drugs it would be advisable to equip yourself with some basic knowledge of first aid that could be useful in an emergency situation. Prior knowledge of the effects of drugs would also assist in assessing what action to take.
Help administered would depend on the circumstances presented at the time (e.g. whether the patient was tense and panicky, drowsy but conscious, dehydrated, or unconscious). The Know The Score| website provides first aid advice on each of these scenarios, including placing the patient in the recovery position.
It may be that the symptoms presented are not drug induced, but this should not be seen as a barrier to seeking help.
What to do in an emergency situation
It is vital in all cases not to panic as this will not help the person requiring assistance.
Remaining calm, you should telephone for an ambulance by dialling 999, and provide them with as much detail of the incident as possible, including any information about the drugs used or suspected to have been used.
Stay with the patient until help arrives, applying assistance as directed by emergency services or resorting to basic first aid.