Identify and Act Upon Immediate Risk of Danger to Substance Misusers

Unit summary

This unit is about identifying the immediate risk of danger to individuals who have used drugs, alcohol or other substances, acting upon the immediate risk of danger and supporting the individual once the risk of danger has passed.

Learning outcomes Assessment

1 Identify immediate risk of danger to substance misusers

1.1 Describe the range of different substances subject to misuse and their effects (eg illegal drugs, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, alcohol, solvents)

1.2 Describe any signs of immediate risk of danger which may include risk of:

a overdose

b individuals causing injury or harm to themselves or others (eg family members)

1.3 Explain the relevant policies and procedures for dealing with risk of danger to individuals and others

2 Act upon immediate risk of danger to substance misusers

2.1 Describe how to make the individual aware that they are available and willing to help

2.2 Obtain information on the substance used from the individual or any person near the individual

2.3 Obtain personal details from the individual or any person near the individual

2.4 Encourage the individual to describe any pain or discomfort they may be experiencing

2.5 Take actions which are appropriate to the substance used and the effect it has had on the individual eg

a calming the individual, if the individual is in an agitated state, if safe to do so

b reviving the individual, if the individual seems to be in a withdrawn state

2.6 Show how to interact with the individual in a manner which recognises their needs and rights

2.7 Demonstrate how to make the environment as safe as possible, including how and when to move individuals for their safety

2.8 Demonstrate when and how to request any first-aid treatment/support

2.9 Support and encourage the individual to recognise the consequences of the episode and to seek further support and assistance (eg to access to relevant agencies and services)

2.10 Record all information and report to appropriate person in the required format