A nurse is administering hydromorphone to a client who is experiencing postoperative pain. Which of the following findings is an adverse effect of this medication?
Urinary retention
Dilated pupils
Hypertension
Tachypnea
The Correct Answer is A
Opioid medications can cause urinary retention by inhibiting the normal function of the bladder and reducing the urge to urinate. This can lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder and increased urine retention. Nurses should monitor clients receiving opioids for signs of urinary retention, such as decreased urine output, distended bladder, or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
Opioids generally cause pupil constriction (miosis) rather than dilation (mydriasis). Dilated pupils may indicate other drug use or neurological issues, but they are not a typical adverse effect of hydromorphone.
Hydromorphone is more likely to cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as an adverse effect rather than hypertension (high blood pressure).
Hydromorphone can cause respiratory depression, which is characterized by decreased respiratory rate and depth. Tachypnea (rapid breathing) is not a typical adverse effect of hydromorphone.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a.While reporting the incident is important, the priority is to stop the confidentiality breach immediately to protect the client's privacy.
b.Participating in training is important for long-term education, but it does not address the immediate issue of the confidentiality breach.
c. Tell the staff members to stop their discussion: This action stops the breach immediately and protects the client's confidential information, which is the first and most crucial step.
d.Speak to the staff members in private about client confidentiality: While this is a good follow-up action to educate and prevent future breaches, the immediate need is to stop the ongoing discussion
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's fears and show empathy toward them. By saying "This must be very frightening for you," the nurse validates the client's feelings and shows that they are being heard. Additionally, by suggesting that they talk more about it, the nurse can work towards building a therapeutic relationship with the client and gain more insight into their thought processes.
The other options are not appropriate because:
a. The nurse should not deny the client's beliefs or try to convince them that they are wrong. This can cause
the client to feel invalidated which may make them less likely to trust the nurse.
c. While it is important to understand the client's perspective, this question may come off as confrontational and accusatory.
d. Similarly, this question may be perceived as confrontational and may make the client defensive. It is important to approach the client with empathy and understanding rather than skepticism.

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