Having already trained over 500 individuals, Centra is continuing to partner with the Virginia Department of Health to offer free education that empowers the community with life-saving knowledge and Narcan Kits to address a vital need.
As we observe September’s National Recovery Month, we’re shining a spotlight on Centra’s commitment to combating the opioid crisis through the free “REVIVE! Opioid Overdoses and Naloxone Education” Training that’s provided to our community in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health.
The collaboration between Centra and the Virginia Department of Health began when instructors from Centra’s Authorized American Heart Association (AHA) Training Center became certified REVIVE! Instructors. The strong relationship between Dr. Kerry Gateley of the health department and Centra’s Training Center laid the foundation for this initiative. Through this partnership, participants not only receive life-saving training but also leave with Narcan Kits to use in emergencies.
The training is designed to be accessible and practical for everyone. The class provides a thorough definition of addiction, explains what opioids are, identifies signs of an overdose and offers guidance on responding to opioid-related emergencies. By the end of the session, participants possess the confidence and knowledge needed to safely administer Narcan in a life-threatening situation.
Since its inception, the demand for these classes has grown significantly. Initially offered quarterly, the sessions have expanded to one to two times per month. To date, around 500 individuals have completed the training through Centra.
ewkDespite the increasing awareness, there are still several misconceptions about Narcan. One of the most persistent myths is that overdose victims will become combative upon being revived. While this is possible, it’s rare. The training covers safety precautions but emphasizes that aggression is uncommon. Another misconception is that Narcan itself is addictive. In reality, it is not habit-forming and poses no risk of dependency.
As Centra continues to offer this free training, we’re helping to build a more informed and prepared community—one that is ready to act when it matters most.