Giving Naloxone by Ampoule Injection
The actual administration of the naloxone to the
patient is actually the same as if the drug was a predosed syringe. However, not all forms
of naloxone will include predosed syringes. Therefore, in this video, we will cover how to
draw the naloxone up from a new syringe for an ampoule. Once you have the needle syringe and
the naloxone ampoule, break off the top of the ampoule to expose the drug, then make sure that
the syringe is empty and place the needle into the drug. As always, be careful when handling
exposed needles. Make sure the tip of the needle has been inserted all the way in as you do
not want to suck any air into the syringe. Slowly pull on the plunger until you have drawn
out 0.4 millilitres of naloxone, then check for air bubbles. Should you see any, hold the needle
vertically and gently flick the tip of the syringe to move the air bubble to the top. Then you can
gently press the plunger to remove the air bubble. Once you are happy that the drug is ready, you
can proceed to actually administer the drug the same as you would as normal. Should you need
to draw up another, then follow these steps again.
Administering Naloxone from an Ampoule - Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing Naloxone from an Ampoule
Introduction:
Not all naloxone forms come in pre-dosed syringes. Here’s how to draw naloxone from an ampoule.
Step-by-Step Process
Handling and Drawing Naloxone:
- Break off the top of the naloxone ampoule to expose the drug.
- Ensure the syringe is empty and carefully insert the needle into the drug.
- Avoid sucking air into the syringe; insert the needle fully.
- Slowly pull the plunger until you have drawn 0.4 millilitres of naloxone.
- Check for air bubbles; flick the syringe gently to move any bubbles to the top.
- Press the plunger gently to remove the air bubble.
Administering the Naloxone
Injection Process:
- Ensure the prepared naloxone is ready for administration.
- Administer the drug as you would with a pre-dosed syringe.
- Repeat the process if additional doses are needed.
Following these steps ensures safe and effective administration of naloxone from an ampoule.