Science Over Stigma: Saving Lives--Implementation of Naloxone Use in the School Setting.

Unintentional drug overdose is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Administration of naloxone hydrochloride ("naloxone") can reverse a potentially fatal opioid overdose and save lives. The school nurse is an essential part of the school team responsible for developing emergency response procedures and should facilitate access to naloxone for the management of opioid-related overdose in the school setting. Delaware has been leading efforts to provide education, increase awareness, and help erase the stigma of substance use disorder through school nurse collaboration with a grassroots organization and state stakeholders. This article discusses the successful implementation of naloxone use in the school setting in Delaware public high schools.