The nurse must take a patient's rectal temperature. Which should the nurse do?

A. Hyperventilation. Opioid overdose depresses the central nervous system, leading to slow and shallow breathing, not increased respiratory rate (hyperventilation).
B. Eupnea. Eupnea refers to normal breathing, which is unlikely in opioid overdose because opioids suppress respiratory drive.
C. Bradypnea. Opioids act on the brainstem's respiratory centers, leading to respiratory depression, characterized by slow breathing (bradypnea) and, in severe cases, respiratory arrest. This is the most life-threatening effect requiring immediate intervention.
D. Hyperpnea. Hyperpnea refers to deep breathing, which is not a typical response to opioid overdose. Instead, breathing becomes slow and shallow, increasing the risk of hypoxia.

A. Take the temperature for 6-8 minutes. Modern digital thermometers provide accurate readings within seconds to a minute, making such a long duration unnecessary.
B. Wear gloves throughout the procedure. Gloves must be worn to maintain infection control and hygiene, as rectal temperature measurement involves contact with mucous membranes and potential exposure to bodily fluids.
C. Place the patient in the prone position. The left lateral (Sims') position is the preferred position for rectal temperature measurement, as it provides better access and comfort.
D. Insert the thermometer 2.5 inches into the patient's anus. For adults, the correct insertion depth is 1.5 inches (3-4 cm), while for infants, it is only 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) to prevent injury.