The physician orders acyclovir 400 mg po three times a day for herpes. The medication is supplied in 800-mg tablets. How many tablets will the nurse administer?

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.

A. "Don't worry. The cancer prevents you from becoming addicted." This statement is incorrect because having cancer does not prevent addiction. However, appropriate pain management in patients with severe pain does not typically lead to addiction.
B. "That is a valid worry. I wouldn't want to become addicted." While acknowledging the patient’s concern is important, this response reinforces fear rather than providing reassurance based on medical evidence.
C. "My cousin was addicted to pain killers when he had cancer." This response is inappropriate because it is anecdotal and does not address the patient’s concern with factual medical information.
D. "Because you have severe pain, the medication is necessary. There is little chance of addiction as long as you take the medication as prescribed." This is the best response because it reassures the patient that pain control is a priority and that, when used correctly, the risk of addiction is minimal.