A nurse is assessing a client 15 minutes after administering 2 mg of morphine sulfate via IV push. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the medication?
Sleepy, but arousing when the name is called.
Pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10.
Respiratory rate of 8/min.
SaO2 94%
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Sleepy, but arousing when the name is called
Feeling sleepy after receiving morphine is a common side effect. However, the fact that the client can be aroused when their name is called suggests that this is not necessarily an adverse effect.
The nurse should continue monitoring the client but may not consider this as a significant adverse reaction.
Choice B: Pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10
Pain relief is one of the intended effects of morphine. Therefore, experiencing pain reduction is not an adverse effect.
The nurse would likely view this as a positive response to the medication.
Choice C: Respiratory rate of 8/min
A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is significantly low and indicates respiratory depression, which is a serious adverse effect of morphine.
The nurse should be concerned about this finding and take appropriate action.
Choice D: SaO2 94%
An oxygen saturation (SaO2) level of 94% is within the normal range (usually 95% or higher). It is unlikely to be directly related to morphine administration.
While this value is not concerning, the nurse should continue monitoring the client's oxygen saturation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Decreased blood pressure can be a sign of many conditions, including gastrointestinal perforation, but it is not specific and can occur in various other medical situations.
Choice B reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are generally not associated with gastrointestinal perforation. They can occur in conditions like gastroenteritis or early bowel obstruction.
Choice C reason: Sudden abdominal pain, especially in the upper abdomen, can be a sign of gastrointestinal perforation. This pain is often severe and can be accompanied by signs of peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Tachycardia, or rapid heart rate, may occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to internal bleeding or infection, which can be secondary to gastrointestinal perforation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The visibility of chest tube eyelets is not typically a concern unless there is evidence that the tube is dislodged. In normal circumstances, the eyelets may not be visible, and this does not necessarily indicate a need for intervention.
Choice B reason: The development of subcutaneous emphysema, which is the presence of air in the subcutaneous tissue, can be a sign of a serious complication such as a pneumothorax. It requires immediate assessment and possible intervention to prevent further complications.
Choice C reason: Tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber is a normal finding when a chest tube is in place. It indicates that the system is patent and functioning correctly as it reflects the pressure changes in the pleural space during respiration.
Choice D reason: Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber may indicate an air leak in the system, which could be normal if the system is set to continuous suction. However, if the bubbling is vigorous and the system is not set to continuous suction, it may indicate a new air leak and require intervention.
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