Naloxone formulations

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Wed, 04/18/2018 - 11:46
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Karin Terry
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Naloxone formulations

We have had multiple discussions at our facilities surrounding what type of naloxone to use where in the hospital. Currently, we have the 2mg/2ml prefilled syringe in all crash carts (except Neonatal) for codes and respiratory arrest. We have the 0.4mg/ml in the ADCs on all units for respiratory depression.
This difference has caused some confusion for nursing/residents as far as which one to use when and how to give it (dilute or not, push or not, etc).

What are others doing with naloxone concentrations? Have you standardized to just one concentration for adults? If not, how do you distinguish and give nurses guidance? Do you have a nursing "standing order" with guidance?

Thanks in advance for any feedback!

Karin Terry
Medication Safety Pharmacist
OSF HealthCare
Peoria, IL.

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