On the Frontlines: Nurse Jordan Henning's Battle with Heroin Overdoses
It can be a little bit more stressful. But if you're careful and you're paying attention to what you're doing...
Imagine the intense pressure of being a nurse on the frontlines of the heroin crisis. In this episode of 'The Addiction', host Andreanna Follensbee sits down with Jordan Henning, a registered nurse and advanced EMT in Wisconsin, to explore the raw realities of treating heroin overdose patients. Henning opens up about her daily struggles and triumphs in the hospital and on ambulances, where every moment can be a matter of life or death.
Henning shares gripping stories about using Narcan, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. She explains how balancing pain management with addiction prevention is a tightrope walk, fraught with ethical dilemmas and emotional challenges. Henning also touches on the safety precautions necessary to protect both patients and medical staff, especially when dealing with unpredictable situations. Despite the harrowing nature of her work, Henning’s dedication shines through.
Her commitment to helping those battling addiction is unwavering, even when faced with potential risks from patients' guests. This episode provides a sobering yet hopeful glimpse into the world of medical professionals fighting the heroin epidemic, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the complexities involved. Whether you're directly affected by addiction, know someone who is, or simply want to gain a more nuanced perspective on this issue, Henning’s experiences offer valuable insights.
Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that underscores the importance of compassion and resilience in the face of a relentless crisis.