To help with the prevention of opioid overdoses, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is offering Naloxone training and distribution to staff and faculty. The initiative is led by Campus Recreation’s Alcohol and Other Drug Education Unit in collaboration with the University Health Center.
Staff and faculty can receive comprehensive training on how to administer Naloxone and distribute Narcan to individuals experiencing an opioid overdose. This summer, UNL Alcohol and Other Drug Education partnered with the Nebraska Pharmacy Association to provide this crucial training, which is free of charge.
The training session lasts about 35 minutes but may extend based on participants' questions. It includes an overview and detailed instructions on Naloxone administration.
“While we hope that you will never have to use this training, we are pleased to offer it to ensure our university community is prepared,” said Jon Gayer, assistant director of alcohol and drug education with Campus Recreation.
Additionally, as part of a Stop Overdose Nebraska (STOPODNE) effort, the University Health Center’s pharmacy distributes Narcan, the life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. The procedure for obtaining Narcan is straightforward and designed to ensure that it is accessible to those who need it. Upon filling out a short form, students, faculty and staff can visit the pharmacy during its regular hours of operation and request one dose of Narcan. The staff will provide a brief consultation to educate the individual on how to safely use Narcan and answer any questions. No prescription is required, and the process is confidential to respect the privacy of those seeking the medication. This service is part of the University Health Center’s commitment to promoting health and safety on campus.
"We are committed to making Narcan easily accessible to everyone on campus," said Aaron Kassebaum, pharmacy supervisor for the University Health Center. "We believe that by offering Narcan without the need for a prescription and maintaining confidentiality, we can help save lives and promote a safer campus environment."
For more information on training or how to distribute Narcan, contact Gayer at jon@unl.edu. For details on how to make Narcan available in an office, contact Nate Abegglen at nabegglen@nebraskamed.com.
