The College of Nurses of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut (CANNN) has released an important advisory on the ongoing risks associated with fentanyl and carfentanil, two extremely potent synthetic opioids linked to rising overdose deaths across Canada.
Why This Matters
Fentanyl and carfentanil are often found mixed—unknowingly—with other substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or illicit pills. Even trace amounts can be fatal, placing individuals, families, and communities at high risk.
Territorial Response & Supports
The overdose response across the Northwest Territories is being led through coordinated efforts by:
- Hay River Health and Social Services Authority
- Government of the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services
These agencies continue to provide education, harm reduction resources, and community-based supports to address the emergency.
Helpful national resources include:
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction – www.ccsa.ca
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health – www.camh.ca
- Health Canada Opioid Response – www.canada.ca/opioids
Professional Obligations for Nurses
Despite challenging conditions—such as limited resources, high client loads, or unfamiliar environments—nurses must continue to meet CANNN Standards of Practice. This includes:
- Communicating with supervisors to identify barriers to safe and ethical care
- Participating in collaborative, system-level solutions
- Accessing available organizational and professional supports
- Maintaining professionalism, including on social media
- Exercising sound critical thinking and judgment to deliver the safest care possible under the circumstances
Nurses remain responsible for providing client-centred, ethical care while upholding the Code of Conduct and all regulatory expectations.
Need Support or Have Questions?
Nurses are encouraged to contact CANNN for guidance, resources, and clarification regarding practice expectations during crisis conditions.
Visit www.cannn.ca for more information.
