Which of the following best indicates a narcotic overdose?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following best indicates a narcotic overdose?

Opioid overdose most reliably shows a combination of signs that reflect severe central nervous system and respiratory depression: slowed or inadequate breathing, unresponsiveness or decreased level of consciousness, and pinpoint pupils. Hypotension can also occur in significant overdoses. Each sign on its own can appear for other reasons, but when slowed breathing, unresponsiveness, and pinpoint pupils occur together, they strongly point to narcotic (opioid) overdose. Because the question's listed signs all align with this pattern, the option that encompasses all of them is the best choice. In the field, treat as overdose by supporting ventilation and airway, monitoring, and administering naloxone when appropriate.

Opioid overdose most reliably shows a combination of signs that reflect severe central nervous system and respiratory depression: slowed or inadequate breathing, unresponsiveness or decreased level of consciousness, and pinpoint pupils. Hypotension can also occur in significant overdoses. Each sign on its own can appear for other reasons, but when slowed breathing, unresponsiveness, and pinpoint pupils occur together, they strongly point to narcotic (opioid) overdose. Because the question's listed signs all align with this pattern, the option that encompasses all of them is the best choice. In the field, treat as overdose by supporting ventilation and airway, monitoring, and administering naloxone when appropriate.

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