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    Ati LPN Mental Health Proctored Exam Final

    Which route of administration for Naloxone is quickest in reversing opioid overdose?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Subcutaneous administration delivers medication into the fatty tissue under the skin. Absorption is slower than IV or IM routes, so it is not the fastest method for opioid overdose reversal. B. Intramuscular (IM) administration involves injecting the medication into a muscle. While absorption is faster than subcutaneous, it is still slower than IV administration, so onset of action is delayed. C. Intravenous (IV) administration is the quickest route for naloxone because it delivers the medication directly into the bloodstream. This allows immediate distribution and action at opioid receptors, rapidly reversing respiratory depression and other life-threatening effects of opioid overdose. IV is preferred in emergency settings when access is available. D. Intranasal spray is a noninvasive route that can be administered by laypersons and first responders. While it works relatively quickly, absorption through nasal mucosa is slower than IV administration and may be less predictable in severe overdose cases.

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