A nurse is assessing a client 15 minutes after administering 2 mg of morphine sulfate via IV push. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the medication?
Sleepy, but arousing when the name is called.
Pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10.
Respiratory rate of 8/min.
SaO2 94%
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Sleepy, but arousing when the name is called
Feeling sleepy after receiving morphine is a common side effect. However, the fact that the client can be aroused when their name is called suggests that this is not necessarily an adverse effect.
The nurse should continue monitoring the client but may not consider this as a significant adverse reaction.
Choice B: Pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10
Pain relief is one of the intended effects of morphine. Therefore, experiencing pain reduction is not an adverse effect.
The nurse would likely view this as a positive response to the medication.
Choice C: Respiratory rate of 8/min
A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is significantly low and indicates respiratory depression, which is a serious adverse effect of morphine.
The nurse should be concerned about this finding and take appropriate action.
Choice D: SaO2 94%
An oxygen saturation (SaO2) level of 94% is within the normal range (usually 95% or higher). It is unlikely to be directly related to morphine administration.
While this value is not concerning, the nurse should continue monitoring the client's oxygen saturation.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The visibility of chest tube eyelets is not typically a concern unless there is evidence that the tube is dislodged. In normal circumstances, the eyelets may not be visible, and this does not necessarily indicate a need for intervention.
Choice B reason: The development of subcutaneous emphysema, which is the presence of air in the subcutaneous tissue, can be a sign of a serious complication such as a pneumothorax. It requires immediate assessment and possible intervention to prevent further complications.
Choice C reason: Tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber is a normal finding when a chest tube is in place. It indicates that the system is patent and functioning correctly as it reflects the pressure changes in the pleural space during respiration.
Choice D reason: Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber may indicate an air leak in the system, which could be normal if the system is set to continuous suction. However, if the bubbling is vigorous and the system is not set to continuous suction, it may indicate a new air leak and require intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This set of values is indicative of metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation, which is common in chronic kidney disease due to the accumulation of acids in the blood and the lungs' attempt to compensate by retaining CO2.
Choice B reason: This choice suggests respiratory alkalosis, which is less likely in chronic kidney disease unless there is a secondary respiratory condition causing hyperventilation.
Choice C reason: This choice indicates metabolic alkalosis, which is not typical for chronic kidney disease, as the kidneys are unable to excrete acid effectively.
Choice D reason: While this set of values does indicate acidosis, the expected compensatory response in chronic kidney disease would be an elevated PaCO2, not a normal or low value.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
