This product is an ASHP Learning Center https://elearning.ashp.org/ activity.
Overview
The Student: Opioid Overdose Management Microcredential is designed for student pharmacists who wish to expand their knowledge and skills applicable to the care of patients at risk for opioid overdose. The curriculum addresses the following topics:
- History and epidemiology of the opioid crisis
- Pharmacology of opioids and opioid antagonists
- Principles of opioid harm reduction
- Risk factors for, and recognition of, opioid use disorder (OUD) and opioid overdose
- Management of opioid overdose
- Identifying patients at risk of opioid overdose in the pharmacy, and practical considerations for prescribing and dispensing opioid antagonists
- Educating patients and caregivers about opioid reversal
- Strategies for prevention of opioid-related harm including decreasing stigma around OUD, opioid antagonist access and Good Samaritan laws, countering myths about access to opioid antagonists, and building community partnerships
The Student: Opioid Overdose Management Microcredential is intended for student pharmacists and is not eligible for ACPE credit.
Student: Opioid Overdose Management Microcredential Requirement
Once a learner has completed the educational curriculum, they will have the opportunity to complete an online comprehensive exam. Once the learner passes the exam (minimum 80% passing rate; unlimited attempts permitted), they will earn the statement of achievement and Credly badge for the microcredential.
Learning Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Describe the history, historical trends, and regulatory changes associated with opium, opiates, and opioids.
- Review the epidemiology of opioid use, misuse, overdose, and the public health impact of the opioid crisis.
- Explain the pharmacology of opioids including, but not limited to, receptor activity and adverse effects.
- Explain the pharmacology of opioid antagonists including, but not limited to, their role in therapy, adverse effects, and special considerations for use.
- Explain the pathogenesis of opioid use disorder, acute opioid withdrawal, and overdose.
- Identify risk factors, clinical presentations, and differential assessments associated with opioid use disorder and opioid overdose.
- Compare the myths and realities of increasing access to opioid antagonists.
- Explain practical considerations for prescribing and dispensing opioid antagonists.
- Describe correct techniques for opioid antagonist administration by caregivers and other responders.
- Counsel patients and caregivers about reversal of opioid overdose.
- Summarize opioid harm reduction principles.
- Apply knowledge of opioid antagonist access laws, stigma reduction, patient education strategies, and community partnerships to prevent opioid-related harm.
Faculty
Christopher Herndon, PharmD, BCACP, FASHP
Professor
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Clinical Associate Professor
St. Louis University School of Medicine
Edwardsville, Illinois