Mobile Overdose Response Training

RN and Education facilitator working in Turning Point’s Overdose Prevention Program, Tricia Peden, draws up naloxone as part of an overdose response training session with the public. (Photo donated)

Following the surge in opioid poisonings within Central Alberta, staff within our Overdose Prevention program have begun heading out to deliver mobile response training and education to community members within Red Deer and surrounding municipalities as of June 3rd, 2021.

Over the next several months, two staff, comprised of a nurse and an outreach worker, will travel across Central Alberta to provide pop-up naloxone training and education, as well as free naloxone kits in an effort to increase awareness surrounding opioid use and other related concerns.

“This is not a formal presentation, but a chance to have a conversation with professionals about opioids, opioid poisonings, and naloxone training,” said the Overdose Prevention program’s education facilitator, Tricia Peden.

“We need more informed communities where discussions surround opioid use and associated risks are had openly and with all members” – Stacey Carmichael

An open naloxone kit including critical materials on how to best respond when faced with an opioid overdose. (Photo by Mitchell Danser)

Staff will plan to set up pop-ups within central locations of each town they visit. Alternatively, communities and agencies can also request that staff set up in specific, high-traffic areas.

“Any and all community members welcome to come to chat with us,” said Peden. “This is informal training in informal settings.”

“Opioid poisonings aren’t solely the concern of our vulnerable populations,” said Turning Point’s Executive Director, Stacey Carmichael.

“We need more informed communities where discussions surround opioid use and associated risks are had openly and with all members. That’s how we reduce the stigma and that’s how we put an end to further fatalities.”

Communities interested in contacting our mobile outreach team are encouraged to reach out to Tricia Peden at: tricia.peden@turningpoint-ca.org.