What protocol would you use for a suspected drug overdose with needles found nearby?

In the scenario of a suspected drug overdose with needles found nearby, the most appropriate protocol to utilize is the one specifically designed for overdose situations, which is Protocol 23 Overdose/Poisoning. This protocol encompasses a detailed series of questions and guidelines focused on the signs and symptoms associated with overdoses, such as respiratory depression, alteration in consciousness, and potentially life-threatening conditions.

The presence of needles suggests a high likelihood of intravenous drug use, which could lead to severe complications. Protocol 23 provides critical instructions on how to assess the patient's condition, immediate interventions required, and essential information to relay to emergency medical services (EMS).

Other protocols, while they address various medical issues, do not centrally focus on the characteristics and management needed for an overdose. For instance, Protocol 26 addresses broader sick persons but lacks the specificity needed for overdoses. Protocol 31 is aimed at unconscious or faint patients, which could apply in this case but does not specifically guide the dispatcher in terms of potential overdose management. Protocol 18 is entirely unrelated, as it deals primarily with headaches and does not connect to substance use issues. Each of these provides valuable information in specific contexts, but for a suspected drug overdose, the focused guidance of Protocol 23 is essential