We need to unite to tackle fentanyl

As an emergency physician, I see too many patients and families destroyed fentanyl epidemic. This is a plague that we can only face united.

Four decades ago, many dismissed the impact of secondhand cigarette smoke. History shows us they were wrong. Today, “educated experts” dismiss what they call trace amounts of fentanyl on public transportation – buses, light rail, and ferries.

The difference? Fentanyl is considerably more toxic.

The time for hiding the effects of addiction and leaving this disease unaddressed in the public square is long past. In fact, bringing these problems to light helps expose the truth and inspire action. Sweeping and bold change is what it will take to address this crisis.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin. It’s 100 times more potent than morphine; simply speaking, it makes the Oxy crisis look manageable. You don’t need to be a doctor to understand how critically serious this epidemic has become.

Our hospital has a special “code orange odor” to warn staff of a hazardous situation that needs immediate attention. This was done after many staff members suffered the effects of secondhand fentanyl smoke, which patients unknowingly bring into the emergency department.

Non-drug users who come in contact with secondhand smoke are at risk of overdosing. We have administered Narcan to several staff members after coming in contact with secondhand or trace amounts of fentanyl.

While this is a horrible occurrence, it is not rare. There are numerous documented incidents throughout the hospitals of our state where the same happened.

These conversations must be had in all levels of government, as well as at the kitchen table.

Dr. Raul Garcia

Astria Toppenish Hospital