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
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect as painless, raised purple nodules on the hard palate are not typically indicative of squamous cell carcinoma.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because a small macule with a yellow-brown scale does not describe squamous cell carcinoma, which often presents as a firm nodule with a scaly crust.
Choice C reason: This choice is correct. Squamous cell carcinoma can present as a firm nodule with a hard, scaly crust on the skin.
Choice D reason: Yellow white patches of growth on the tongue are more indicative of conditions such as oral leukoplakia, not squamous cell carcinoma.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A rosebud like stoma orifice is a normal appearance for a new colostomy, indicating that the stoma is healthy and not in distress.
Choice B reason: Red drainage from a stoma can be normal, especially in the early postoperative period, as the stoma may ooze a small amount of blood. However, if the drainage is excessive or persistent, it should be reported.
Choice C reason: A shiny, moist stoma is also a sign of a healthy stoma. The stoma should be moist and have a pink or red color, similar to the inside of the mouth.
Choice D reason: A purplish colored stoma indicates compromised blood flow and is a sign of ischemia. This is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention to prevent tissue death.
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