Workers in the ED might be exposed to illicit opioids, such as fentanyl, if the patient or his or her personal items are contaminated. The following resources offer information on the potential for worker exposure to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl:

• Preventing Occupational Exposure to Healthcare Personnel in Hospital and Clinic Settings. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
• Fentanyl: Preventing Occupational Exposure to Emergency Responders. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
• Fentanyl Exposure Risks for Law Enforcement and Emergency Response Workers. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
• Recommendations on Selection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Decontamination Products for First Responders Against Exposure Hazards to Synthetic Opioids, Including Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analogues. The Interagency Board.
• Fentanyl Safety Recommendations for First Responders. White House National Security Council Interagency Working Group.
• Preventing Occupational Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analog Exposure to Emergency Responders. American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT) and American Academy of Clinical Toxicology (AACT).
• Fentanyl. National Institutes of Health (NIH).