Policy Bulletin 664


Policy Bulletin

Number: 664

In Effect: 2021-01-18

Related links:

Guidelines (GL) 800-4 – Response to Medical Emergencies

Policy numbers and titles:

Guidelines (GL) 800-4 – Response to Medical Emergencies

Why was the policy changed?

Modifications were made to this policy in response to a Board of Investigation’s recommendation to issue a clear and specific policy direction on the mandatory use of naloxone by non medical staff in the case of an inmate having a suspected opioid overdose, to preserve life.

What has changed?

In the case of suspected opioid overdose, institutional correctional staff will administer naloxone nasal spray to the inmate to preserve life. This also applies to other non-health services staff trained in the use of naloxone. The administration of naloxone must immediately be followed by calling an ambulance to transport the offender to a community hospital while continuing CPR until relieved by medical personnel.

In the case of a suspected overdose incident, correctional staff is to advise Health Services that naloxone was given so that it can be replaced and consider enhanced patrols following the incident to ensure the well-being of inmates.

Naloxone is to be secured in strategic locations within accommodation units where there are dedicated staff, or in inmate accessible storage kits in accommodation units where there are no dedicated staff (e.g., houses).

Immediately following a medical emergency, the Correctional Manager must report to Health Services at the next shift that naloxone was given so that it can be replaced.

Other minor modifications were made to this policy as part of a general update per the policy development review cycle.

How was it developed?

Modifications to this policy were made in collaboration with the Strategic Policy Division, and following consultation with internal and external stakeholders.

Who will be affected by the policy?

All staff are potentially affected by this policy.

Date modified: