Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Kit Distribution: A Quality Assurance Educational Program in the Primary Care Setting

In 2014, there were approximately 200,000 incidents of an unintentional opioid overdose nationwide. The 2016 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention opioid prescription guidelines identified a knowledge deficit regarding opioid prescribing among primary care providers as a contributing factor to this epidemic.

The purpose of this quality assurance project was to provide education on opioid overdose and distribution of naloxone kits through a presentation to primary care providers at Veterans Administration facilities in the southeast region of the United States.

A convenience sampling strategy was utilized for this project. Primary care providers who prescribe opioids or care for patients at risk of an opioid-related event or death were invited to participate. A Likert scale survey was used to determine the effectiveness of the presentation.

The results of the survey showed a potential for improving medical providers' perceptions and comfort with prescribing naloxone kits. The mean score at pretest was 32 of 50 (64%) in contrast to 42 of 50 (84%) after attending the presentation. Attending this quality assurance presentation was related to an increased awareness of naloxone kit availability and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations regarding the safe administration of opioids.

This educational presentation can assist providers in identifying patients who are prescribed opioids and at risk for accidental overdose and death.