A nurse is assessing the status of a patient who is sleeping.
Which assessment data indicate that the patient is most likely in stage 3 of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep?

Choice A rationale:

Oxymorphone is not an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug). It is an opioid analgesic, which is used for more severe pain relief. It is not suitable for managing swelling and pain caused by an injury.

Choice B rationale:

Ibuprofen is an NSAID and is an appropriate choice for managing pain and swelling associated with injuries like the patient's knee injury. NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in such cases.

Choice C rationale:

Acetaminophen is not an NSAID. It is classified as an analgesic and antipyretic, and while it can help with pain relief, it may not be as effective in reducing inflammation, which is essential in cases of swelling due to an injury.

Choice D rationale:

Aspirin is an NSAID, but it is not the best choice for this patient. Aspirin is known to have a higher risk of gastrointestinal side effects, and there are other NSAIDs like ibuprofen that are generally preferred for pain management and inflammation without the same level of side effects.

Choice A rationale:

Constipation is not a common adverse effect of pain medication administered by the epidural route. Pain medication primarily affects the central nervous system and does not typically impact the gastrointestinal system in a way that would lead to constipation.

Choice B rationale:

Hypoventilation is the correct answer. When opioids or other potent pain medications are administered by the epidural route, they can depress the respiratory center in the brain, leading to hypoventilation (slow or inadequate breathing). This is a critical concern and the most important adverse effect to monitor because it can lead to respiratory compromise or even respiratory arrest.

Choice C rationale:

Nausea can be a side effect of some pain medications, but it is not the most important adverse effect to monitor in a patient receiving epidural pain medication. Nausea can often be managed with antiemetic medications.

Choice D rationale:

Headache is not a common adverse effect of epidural pain medication. The administration of pain medication into the epidural space is localized to the spinal area and does not typically lead to headaches.