Extending the Reach: An Opioid Education and Naloxone Distribution Program in Juvenile Hall in San Diego

Abstract

Opioid education and naloxone distribution (OEND) programs are evidence-based interventions effective in reducing opioid-related deaths among adults but remain underutilized in juvenile detention settings. Our quality improvement initiative aimed to address this gap by implementing and evaluating an OEND program at a San Diego juvenile detention facility. The primary goal was to increase the percentage of youth receiving opioid education and naloxone simulation training from 0% to 50% over 6 months (March–August 2023). The secondary aim assessed training impact through surveys. Participation was voluntary. A generalized mixed-effects model analyzed survey responses. More than 50% (n = 51) of residents participated, with significant improvement in opioid identification, overdose recognition, and response confidence (p < .05). Simulation was completed by 48 of 51 participants. There was no disruption in clinical workflow.