Receiving Delegation
In Ontario, the administration of naloxone is outside the scope of occupational therapy practice as it falls under the controlled act of administering a substance by injection or inhalation. If an occupational therapist is expected to administer naloxone in the course of
their role, the occupational therapist must:
- obtain appropriate training in the use of intra-nasal and/or intramuscular forms of naloxone
- receive delegation from another regulated health professional who is authorized to perform this controlled act
- be ready to safely and effectively administer naloxone and manage the outcome of the administration
- comply with their organizational policies and procedures.
Responding to an Emergency
The
Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) provides an exception under which the controlled act may be performed without authority or delegation. That exception applies when:
- Giving first
aid or temporary assistance in an emergency - RHPA section 29(1)
Occupational therapists may find themselves in unexpected circumstances where they are required to respond to a client or other individual who is experiencing an opioid overdose. In
such an instance, an occupational therapist with access to naloxone could administer the overdose medication without delegation.
Occupational therapists are encouraged to review any relevant legislation, regulations, and updates pertaining to Ontario’s Opioid Strategy
and the administration of naloxone
If you have questions about occupational therapy practice and the administration of naloxone, please contact the Practice Resource Service at 1-800-890-6570 or 416-214-1177 x240 or
[email protected].