Harm Reduction Models

From Abstinence to "Never Use Alone"

A peer-run hotline designed for the point of use.

1

Caller provides location and use profile.

2

Operator stays on the line during use.

3

If caller stops responding, EMS is called.

"We cannot treat a patient who is dead. Our primary clinical objective is physiological continuity."

Status: Remote Vital Monitor (Non-Electronic)

Hotline counselors are trained to listen for specific sounds over the phone:

Commonly referred to as the "death rattle," indicating respiratory depression or airway blockage.

Standard protocol: "If they don't answer three verbal prompts within 10 seconds, activate emergency response."

Assessing cognitive status and orientation before the point of use.

The most common indicator of loss of consciousness; requires immediate "rescue" call to secondary line.

Refer to 12-step meetings, outpatient therapy, or peer support warmlines for maintenance.

Refer to MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment) clinics or needle exchanges for physical safety.

Direct referral to Detox/In-patient or immediate Naloxone deployment instructions.

"Referral is not success. Safety is success."