In suspected opioid withdrawal or opioid use disorder, which action is included in BLS protocol?

• A. Administer naloxone
• B. Ensure patent airway
• C. Initiate IV antibiotics
• D. Delay transport until ED arrives

Answer: (B)

Securing the airway is the essential step in BLS care for suspected opioid issues. Opioids can suppress respiration, so keeping the airway open and ensuring adequate breathing is the foundation of immediate care. At the BLS level, this means positioning the patient to maintain an open airway, suctioning if secretions are present, using basic airway adjuncts if trained, and providing oxygen as available. Once the airway is protected and breathing is supported, transport is arranged for further evaluation and treatment.

Naloxone can reverse opioid effects, but its use depends on your specific scope of practice and protocols, so it isn’t guaranteed to be included in every BLS scenario. Initiating IV antibiotics is not relevant to the acute EMS management of suspected opioid use, and delaying transport until an ED arrival is inappropriate.