Quick response, Naloxone helps save a life at Vista Community Counseling

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The San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Department nursing team at Vista Community Counseling in Fontana is being credited with saving a life after quickly identifying a suspected opioid overdose and administering naloxone before emergency responders arrived.

The incident occurred June 1, when nursing staff responded to reports of a medical emergency involving an individual at the site. After conducting an immediate assessment, the team determined the person was likely experiencing an opioid overdose and administered naloxone, a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioids.

The individual regained responsiveness before first responders arrived and was later transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

The response has drawn praise from behavioral health leaders, who said the nurses’ quick actions helped prevent a potentially fatal outcome.

“This incident demonstrates the extraordinary skill, preparedness and dedication of our frontline healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Jonathan Avalos, associate medical director for the Behavioral Health. “Their actions reflect the highest standards of care and underscore the critical role of nursing within behavioral health to protect the health and safety of our community.”

The department recognized Registered Nurse John Capsavage and Licensed Vocational Nurse Raul Cervantes for their response, teamwork and commitment to patient care during the emergency.

The incident also highlights the growing importance of naloxone in responding to opioid overdoses. The medication, available without a prescription at many pharmacies and through community distribution programs, can quickly restore breathing when administered during an overdose.

Behavioral Health officials continue to encourage residents, family members, caregivers and community organizations to keep naloxone readily available and learn how to use it. According to overdose prevention experts, timely administration of naloxone can mean the difference between life and death during an opioid-related emergency.

Free naloxone and overdose prevention resources are available to San Bernardino County residents by visiting wp.sbcounty.gov/dbh/fentanyl. For information about alcohol or drug use treatment options, call 800-968-2636 for a free, confidential assessment and help finding the treatment that is right for you.

Additional County Update News – June 25, 2026