Can Fentanyl be used safely in the field?

In this podcast episode, Dennis and Brad discuss the use of fentanyl as an opioid analgesic. They explore the history and development of fentanyl, its pharmacological properties, and its advantages over other opioids. They also discuss the administration of fentanyl, including IV and lollipop forms, and the importance of titrating the dose to the patient's respiratory rate. The potential side effects and contraindications of fentanyl are also addressed. Takeaways Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that was developed in the 1950s as a reliable and titratable pain medication. It has a rapid onset and peak effect, making it useful for pain control in trauma and sedation during procedures. Fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and is typically administered in microgram doses. Respiratory depression is a potential side effect of fentanyl, but it can be managed by monitoring the patient's respiratory rate. Fentanyl lollipops are an alternative route of administration, but they require proper technique and can cause nausea and vomiting. Fentanyl patches are not recommended for prehospital use due to their slow onset and potential for unpredictable drug release. Proper education and understanding of fentanyl's pharmacology and administration are essential for safe and effective use. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care⁠