A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who last used heroin 8 hr ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of opioid withdrawal?
Tachycardia
Miosis
Hypotension
Sedation
The Correct Answer is A
A. Tachycardia: Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common manifestation of opioid withdrawal. Withdrawal stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to symptoms like tachycardia, sweating, anxiety, and restlessness.
B. Miosis: Miosis, or pinpoint pupils, is associated with opioid intoxication, not withdrawal. During withdrawal, pupils are often dilated (mydriasis) rather than constricted.
C. Hypotension: Hypertension, not hypotension, is more commonly seen during opioid withdrawal due to increased sympathetic nervous system activity. Blood pressure tends to rise rather than fall during withdrawal episodes.
D. Sedation: Sedation is a sign of opioid intoxication rather than withdrawal. Clients experiencing withdrawal are more likely to display agitation, irritability, and insomnia rather than drowsiness or sedation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Oxygen saturation 95%: An oxygen saturation of 95% is within normal limits for most clients and does not indicate respiratory compromise. No immediate provider notification is necessary based solely on this oxygen saturation level during opioid therapy.
B. Respiratory rate 14/min: A respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute is normal. Significant respiratory depression from opioids like hydromorphone would typically be indicated by a rate lower than 12 breaths per minute.
C. Urinary output 160 mL/8 hr: Urinary output should be at least 30 mL/hr. A total of 160 mL in 8 hours is significantly low, suggesting possible urinary retention or decreased renal perfusion, both of which can be side effects of opioid use and should be reported promptly.
D. Blood pressure 108/58 mm Hg: While this blood pressure is on the lower side, it is not critically low for many adults. Unless the client is symptomatic with dizziness or fainting, this blood pressure alone does not require immediate provider notification.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Active movement is present: The presence of active movement in the fingers and toes of the affected arm indicates that nerve and muscle function are intact, which is a positive finding. It indicates there is no impairment in function of the affected arm.
B. Pain is 4 on scale of 0 to 10: A pain level of 4 is moderate pain and might be expected after a fracture. As long as pain is being managed appropriately with prescribed medications and no other concerning symptoms are present, it does not necessarily require immediate reporting.
C. Capillary refill is less than 2 seconds: A capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is normal. This suggests good blood flow to the affected arm and is not an issue that needs reporting.
D. Skin is cool to the touch: A cool skin temperature on the affected arm could indicate impaired circulation, possibly due to swelling or tightness of the cast, which could lead to compartment syndrome—a serious condition that requires immediate intervention. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider immediately.
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