The College is pleased to share the following information with employers to ensure they are up to date with the guidance around the administration of Naloxone.
In December 2023, College Council approved the revision to the Appendix on the administration of Naloxone, which forms part of the Practice Guidelines for Medication Practices. The revisions to the Appendix on the administration of Naloxone clarifies that College registrants with the appropriate training can administer Naloxone without a formal delegation process. You can view the revised Practice Guidelines for Medication Practices and the Appendix on the administration of Naloxone on the College’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Administration of Naloxone
Can social workers and social service workers administer Naloxone?
Yes, social workers and social service workers are permitted to administer Naloxone. During a life-threatening emergency due to an opioid overdose, any individual can administer Naloxone. Social workers and social service workers are also permitted to administer Naloxone as part of their job duties.
Do social workers and social service workers need a formal delegation to administer Naloxone?
No, social workers and social service workers can administer Naloxone without a formal delegation process, even if the administration is an expected part of their job duties.
Before the revisions to the Appendix on the administration Naloxone came into effect in December 2023, registrants were required to obtain a formal delegation if the administration of Naloxone was part of their regular job duties.
Can social workers and social service workers distribute Naloxone kits?
Yes, social workers and social service workers can distribute Naloxone kits, also known as Narcan kits.
Please note that the College requires registrants to be aware of their level of competence and professional scope of practice, as stated in the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, before carrying out any task related to the distribution of medications.
For more information
If you or your social worker and social service worker employees have further questions about the administration of Naloxone, contact the College’s Professional Practice Department at practice@ocswssw.org.