Which symptom indicates a potential opioid overdose in this patient?

Prepare for the Minneapolis Fire Department SOP Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations for each question. Ensure you're ready for success!

The symptom that indicates a potential opioid overdose is pinpoint pupils. Opioids are known to cause respiratory depression and sedation, which is often accompanied by a characteristic constriction of the pupils, a condition known as miosis. In the context of an opioid overdose, this is one of the classic signs that emergency responders look for, as it can help distinguish opioid-related issues from other types of medical emergencies.

In contrast, rapid heart rate is not typically associated with opioid overdose and can instead be a sign of various other medical conditions or stimulant drug use. Excessive sweating might indicate distress or other medical issues but is not a definitive symptom of opioid overdose. Dilated pupils generally suggest other types of drug intoxication or withdrawal scenarios but are not a symptom associated with opioid overdose, as opioids typically lead to the opposite effect on pupil size.

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