If the casualty regains consciousness

The casualty will NOT KNOW that they have been rescued from an overdosed state once they regain consciousness and may therefore be unaware of the ongoing danger to them. The casualty may become agitated or even aggressive, due to withdrawal symptoms they may be experiencing.

If a casualty regains consciousness/wakes up BEFORE the ambulance arrives, the helper should:

1. Explain to the casualty what has happened. Tell the casualty that they overdosed, could not be woken/were having breathing problems etc
2. Offer reassurance, explaining that they have been given Prenoxad injection to help restore their breathing and save their life
3. Explain to the casualty that the withdrawal symptoms they are experiencing (if this is the case) are temporary and will gradually ease within the next hour or so. Also explain that this is because the Prenoxad injection will wear off and that they are in danger of going back into overdose during this time
4. The casualty should be told not to use any drugs, including alcohol
5. Tell the casualty that it is extremely important that they are seen by the ambulance crew when they attend