What is one potential outcome of effective harm reduction strategies?

Effective harm reduction strategies aim to minimize the negative consequences associated with substance use rather than solely focusing on abstinence. One significant potential outcome of implementing these strategies is a reduction in emergency room visits.

This occurs because harm reduction approaches, such as needle exchange programs, supervised consumption sites, and access to naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication), help address the health risks associated with substance use. By providing resources and support to individuals, these strategies can lead to safer practices, ultimately decreasing the likelihood of medical emergencies like overdoses or infections caused by improper use of needles.

In contrast, options suggesting increased substance use, complete prevention of substance use, or higher rates of relapse do not align with the principles of harm reduction. The focus is on reducing harm, not necessarily eliminating substance use altogether or increasing the likelihood of negative outcomes.