Layperson reversal of opioid overdose supported by smartphone alert: A prospective observational cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Rapid naloxone administration is crucial in reversing an opioid overdose. We investigated whether equipping community members, including people who use opioids (PWUO), with a smartphone application enabling them to signal and respond to suspected overdose would support naloxone administration in advance of Emrgency Medical Services (EMS).

Methods

This observational cohort study of opioid overdose intervention used a dedicated smartphone app, UnityPhilly, activated by volunteers witnessing an overdose to signal other nearby volunteers in Philadelphia (March 2019 - February 2020). Alerted volunteers chose to respond, or declined to respond, or ignored/missed the alert. Witnessing volunteer was connected to 9-1-1 through a semi-automated telephone call. The primary o

SUBMITTER: Schwartz DG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7486335 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature