A nurse is preparing to administer an opioid agonist to a client who has acute pain. For which of the following manifestations should the nurse monitor as an adverse effect of this medication?
Irritating cough
Tachypnea
Hypertension
Urinary retention
The Correct Answer is D
A. Irritating cough. Opioid agonists do not typically cause an irritating cough. In fact, opioids like codeine are used as antitussives to suppress cough reflexes.
B. Tachypnea. Opioids depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory depression rather than an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea). The nurse should monitor for bradypnea instead.
C. Hypertension. Opioids commonly cause hypotension due to vasodilation and central nervous system depression. Hypertension is not a typical adverse effect.
D. Urinary retention. Opioids can increase sphincter tone and suppress the urge to void, leading to urinary retention. This is a known side effect and should be monitored, especially in older adults or those with underlying bladder issues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
A. Pulse of smooth contour with 2+ amplitude. A normal pulse should have a smooth upstroke and downstroke with a moderate (2+) amplitude, indicating adequate blood flow and cardiac function.
B. Heart rate of 62 beats/min. A normal resting heart rate for a healthy adult range from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate of 62 bpm is within this normal range.
C. S1 and S2 present with regular rhythm. The first (S1) and second (S2) heart sounds should be audible and regular, indicating normal closure of the heart valves and a steady cardiac rhythm.
D. Mild, pedal edema. Pedal edema is not a normal finding in a healthy adult and may indicate fluid retention or cardiovascular issues such as heart failure or venous insufficiency.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Document the findings in the patient's medical record. While documentation is important, further assessment is needed before determining if the blood pressure is abnormal for this patient.
B. Apply a cool washcloth to the patient's forehead. The patient’s temperature is normal (98.9°F), so there is no need for cooling measures.
C. Administer oxygen at 2 L/minute via nasal cannula. The pulse oximetry is 94%, which is adequate for most patients. Oxygen is not needed unless the patient shows signs of respiratory distress.
D. Ask the patient about his usual blood pressure results. The blood pressure (144/94 mmHg) is elevated, but before determining if intervention is needed, the nurse should ask if this is typical for the patient or if it is an isolated finding.
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