CRS Harm Reduction & Overdose Prevention

Question 1

Which best describes the philosophy of harm reduction?

Accepted Answer

Meeting people where they are and reducing negative consequences of use without requiring abstinence first

Answer

Harm reduction accepts people where they are and focuses on reducing harms such as overdose and infection. Any positive change counts, and abstinence is not a precondition.

Question 2

Naloxone (Narcan) reverses an overdose caused by which type of substance?

Accepted Answer

Opioids

Answer

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist. It displaces opioids from receptors and reverses respiratory depression. It is safe to give if opioids might be involved, but it does not reverse alcohol, benzodiazepines or stimulants.

Question 3

Which is a key sign of an opioid overdose?

Accepted Answer

Pinpoint pupils, unresponsiveness, and slow or stopped breathing

Answer

The opioid overdose triad is pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness and respiratory depression. Blue lips or fingertips and gurgling sounds may also appear.

Question 4

Good Samaritan overdose laws, which exist in most U.S. states, generally:

Accepted Answer

Provide limited legal protection for people who call 911 to report an overdose

Answer

Good Samaritan laws give limited immunity, often from minor possession charges, to people who seek emergency help. This encourages bystanders to call 911. Protections vary by state.

Question 5

A peer who uses opioids is not ready to stop. Which response by a recovery specialist is most consistent with harm reduction?

Accepted Answer

Provide naloxone and information on fentanyl test strips and never using alone, while continuing to offer support

Answer

Harm reduction keeps the person alive and connected by offering overdose prevention tools and continued engagement. That support can later open the door to further change.

(CRS) Certified Recovery Specialist Practice Test

(CRS) Certified Recovery Specialist Practice Test

CRS Harm Reduction & Overdose Prevention