Beyond narcan: comprehensive opioid training for law enforcement

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Local law enforcement in Tippecanoe County Indiana identified a need for training to be better prepared for encounters with people that were using opioids. In response, an interactive video series was created to provide comprehensive opioid education. Methods The video scripts were reviewed by content experts for clinical accuracy. The videos include people from the recovery community and law enforcement. Community Corrections staff participated in pilot testing of the videos by completing a pre-viewing survey, post-viewing survey, and a six months follow up survey. Results The videos were shown to effectively increase knowledge about opioids, increase confidence in working with people using opioids, and reduce some stigma. Significant stigma still existed related to people in healthcare and education using buprenorphine (Suboxone) for medication-assisted treatment. Some of the largest increases in knowledge were related to the pharmacological action of naltrexone (Vivitrol) and opioid use by pregnant women. Conclusions This pilot test of the publicly available Pathways to Recovery: Training Modules for Opioid Use Disorder shows that it can be an effective training tool for law enforcement seeking to improve interactions with people that use opioids. Further study among a variety of law enforcement is recommended.