Rescue Breaths
Rescue breaths can save a life during an overdose because drugs such as fentanyl and xylazine slow or stop a person’s breathing.
- To provide rescue breaths to an adult, first ensure the airway is unobstructed.
- Place one hand on the person’s chin and gently tilt the head back.
- Pinch the nose shut and cover the person’s mouth with yours to create a seal.
- Deliver two slow breaths, looking for the chest (not stomach) to rise.
- Continue with one breath every five seconds.
Rescue breaths are a good idea in an overdose situation even if naloxone has already been administered. In fact, someone may not begin to breathe on their own until two to three minutes after the naloxone has been administered.
