In symptomatic suspected opioid overdose, which action is not recommended?

• A. Restrain PRN
• B. Allow the patient to walk
• C. Position on affected side if secretions difficult to manage
• D. Monitor blood glucose

Answer: (B)

In symptomatic suspected opioid overdose, the priority is airway and breathing. The person may have depressed respiration and diminished airway protection, so keeping them still and supported helps prevent complications and allows you to monitor and manage their airway effectively.

Allowing the patient to walk is not recommended because as their consciousness and respirations remain impaired, movement increases the risk of airway obstruction, aspiration if they vomit or secretions are present, and falls or injury. Keeping them in a stable position that protects the airway—such as a side-lying recovery position when secretions or vomiting are an issue—helps drainage, reduces aspiration risk, and makes suctioning and monitoring easier. Checking blood glucose remains a useful part of the assessment to rule out another cause of altered mental status. Restraint, while sometimes necessary for safety, is not the primary action here because it can worsen breathing and complicate airway management.