NIC Launches E-Course for Naloxone Administration: A Step Towards Addressing Opioid Overdoses in Correctional Facilities

National Institute of Corrections introduces online training program to equip correctional staff in saving lives

In an effort to combat the alarming rates of opioid-related deaths among incarcerated individuals, the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) has unveiled a new e-course, Naloxone Administration. This online training program aims to educate correctional staff on identifying the risks and hazards associated with opioid exposure, as well as equipping them with life-saving techniques to minimize harm.

With opioid-related deaths in the United States surpassing 90 per day, claiming a life every 21 minutes, the urgency to address this crisis within correctional facilities is paramount. Statistics reveal that drug-related deaths rank among the top three causes of mortality in jails, and the number of people who died in prison due to drugs surged by over 600% between 2001 and 2018 [1],[2]. Recognizing the ongoing significance of the opioid epidemic, NIC developed the Naloxone Administration e-course to ensure that correctional staff across the nation possess the necessary awareness and skills to respond effectively to opioid overdoses.

Mike Ward, NIC's learning specialist and the designer of the e-course, emphasizes the importance of this initiative. "The opioid epidemic is still significant and still bears its presence," Ward states. By extending the availability of the course beyond the Bureau of Prisons to correctional staff nationwide, NIC aims to facilitate widespread awareness and preparedness to address opioid emergencies on a greater scale.

Naloxone Administration provides comprehensive training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose. The e-course offers step-by-step instructions and realistic scenarios to guide participants through the use and application of Naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Through a combination of videos, illustrations, and text-based content, learners gain a thorough understanding of the key steps involved in administering Naloxone.

One notable feature of the e-course is its compliance with the certification requirements for Naloxone application. By completing the Naloxone Administration training, correctional staff can obtain the necessary certification, further reinforcing their ability to respond effectively in opioid emergency situations. The course is conveniently accessible through the NIC Learn Center, providing a user-friendly platform for staff members to enhance their knowledge and skills at their own pace.

The introduction of Naloxone Administration by the National Institute of Corrections signifies a significant step forward in addressing opioid overdoses within correctional facilities. By empowering correctional staff with the tools and knowledge to identify and respond to opioid emergencies, this e-course has the potential to save lives and contribute to the overall well-being of incarcerated individuals.

You can find the e-course in the NIC Learn Center.