'It's too much, I'm getting really tired of it': Overdose response and structural vulnerabilities among harm reduction workers in community settings

Original research
par
Kolla, Gillian & Carol Strike

Date de publication

2019

Géographie

Canada

Langue de la ressource

English

Texte disponible en version intégrale

Non

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Non

Évalué par des pairs

Yes

L’objectif

This study examines structural vulnerabilities that constrain PWUD as they attempt to implement overdose education and naloxone distribution program advice.

Constatations/points à retenir

OEND advice includes not injecting alone, carrying naloxone, and calling 911 if overdose occurs. The ability of Satellite Site workers to respond according to public health guidelines is complicated by contextual and structural factors, including a lack of supervised injection services, vulnerability to eviction, and continued criminalization of drug use. Participants described how responding to increasing numbers of overdoses was stressful, with stress compounded by their close relationships with those who were overdosing. These factors were impacting the willingness of Satellite Site workers to continue to supervise drug use.

La conception ou méthodologie de recherche

Ethnographic study based on satellite sites

Mots clés

Overdose
Harm reduction
Policy/Regulatory
Safer supply
Decriminalization/legalization
Advocacy
About PWUD
Barriers and enablers
Illegal drugs
Peer/PWLLE program involvement
Sex/Gender
SCS/OPS