A nurse is caring for a client who has Stage IV lung cancer and was prescribed opioid medications for pain management. The client is unable to engage in most physical activities. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A reason:

Tennis may not be the best recommendation for someone with low back pain. The sport requires quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and starts, as well as repetitive twisting motions that can exacerbate back pain. While it provides good general exercise, the high-impact nature of tennis and the strain it puts on the back could potentially worsen the client's condition.

Choice B reason:

Canoeing involves repetitive rowing actions that can strain the lower back, especially if the individual does not use proper form. The seated position in a canoe may also put additional pressure on the lower back. Therefore, it might not be the most suitable activity for someone experiencing low back pain.

Choice C reason:

Rowing, similar to canoeing, can place stress on the lower back due to the repetitive motion and the need for strong engagement of the core muscles. If not performed with proper technique, rowing could lead to increased back pain and is not typically recommended for those with existing low back issues.

Choice D reason:

Swimming is often recommended for individuals with low back pain because it is a low-impact exercise that does not put additional stress on the spine. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing the load on the back while allowing for a full range of motion. Swimming can help strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility, making it a suitable activity for managing low back pain.

Choice A reason:
Mucositis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, which is commonly associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, not directly with opioid use. While it can be a concern for cancer patients, it is not a typical side effect of opioids.

Choice B reason:
Bleeding is not a common side effect of opioid medications. While cancer patients may experience bleeding due to various reasons, including the cancer itself or treatment-related issues, opioids do not typically cause bleeding.

Choice C reason:
Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a common side effect of opioid medications due to their action on the gastrointestinal tract. Opioids reduce gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation, which can progress to impaction if not managed properly. This is a manifestation that nurses should anticipate and manage proactively in clients taking opioid medications for pain management.

Choice D reason:
Diarrhea is not typically associated with opioid use. In fact, opioids are more likely to cause constipation rather than diarrhea. Diarrhea may occur as a result of other treatments or conditions but is not a direct side effect of opioids.