(201) Assessment of a Harm Reduction and Opioid Education (H.E.R.O) Program in Student Pharmacists

Objective : In 2021 Louisiana ranked 4th in opioid overdose deaths and ranked above the national average in opioid prescription rates. To help combat the opioid epidemic in Louisiana faculty members applied for and received a grant for harm reduction education and distribution. The purpose of this study is to assess an adaptable education program developed to train student pharmacists on harm reduction and substance use disorders.

Methods: In this IRB approved pilot study, student pharmacists were recruited through e-mail to participate in a voluntary education session. An informed consent discussion and signing was completed at the start of the education session. Survey data included demographic data and the last opioid overdose reversal experience. The pre-survey and post survey included the validated Opioid Overdose Knowledge Scale (OOKS) and Opioid Overdose Attitude Scale (OOAS). The active learning program consisted of an introduction to common opioids of abuse, medical facts, stigma, Louisiana legislation, overdose risk factors and symptom recognition, fentanyl test strip demonstrations, and a simulated opioid overdose scenario on a mannequin. At the program's end, each participant received a certificate and a harm reduction kit.

Results: 41 participants (ages 18-45) completed the training with most of the participants identifying as white/Caucasian and female (68% and 73% respectively). Using a paired T-test the OOKS scale showed a significant +2.44 (p <.001) change between the pre-and post-survey. The OOAS scale had a mean score increase of +12 (p <.001), with the competency of managing an overdose sub-scale showing the largest increase (+9.5, p<.001).

Conclusions: Overall participants' opioid overdose knowledge and attitudes significantly increased; therefore, the findings of our study indicate the H.E.R.O program can be used successfully in student pharmacists.