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Question
Can the nursing assistant-registered/nursing assistant-certified (NA-R/NA-C) give intranasal naloxone for a suspected opioid drug overdose?
Answer

Yes. The NA-R/NA-C the NA-R/NA-C may administer intranasal naloxone to anyone that they suspect is having an opioid overdose in any setting (RCW 69.41.095) without registered nurse (RN) delegation when prescribed by an authorized health care practitioner. Administration of intranasal naloxone may also be delegated (although it is not required) by the RN in community-based (adult family homes, assisted living facilities, and residential homes for individuals with developmental disabilities) and in-home care settings, because in these settings the RN may delegate medication administration if it does not involve puncturing of the skin. See the Washington State Board of Nursing’s Prevention and Treatment of Opioid-Related Overdoses Advisory Opinion and the Overdose Prevention, Recognition, and Response | Washington State Department of Health Website for more information.

FAQ Category
Nursing Delegation