A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing seizures due to alcohol withdrawal.
Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

Choice A rationale:

Decreased temperature is not a typical sign of naloxone reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioid overdose commonly leads to respiratory depression and hypoxia, but it does not significantly affect body temperature. Naloxone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, thereby reversing the effects of the overdose. The primary signs of successful reversal include improved respiratory rate and increased alertness, not changes in body temperature.

Choice B rationale:

Polyuria (excessive urination) is not a specific indicator of naloxone effectiveness. Opioid overdose and naloxone administration primarily affect the central nervous system and respiratory function, not urinary output. Naloxone's effects are more evident in the client's level of consciousness, respiratory rate, and overall responsiveness.

Choice C rationale:

Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not an expected indicator of naloxone effectiveness. Opioid overdose typically causes respiratory depression, leading to a decreased respiratory rate and oxygen saturation. Naloxone works by reversing this respiratory depression and improving ventilation. Consequently, increased respiratory rate, not heart rate, is a more relevant indicator of naloxone's effectiveness in reversing opioid overdose.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct answer. Increased respiratory rate is a key indicator that naloxone is reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioid overdose depresses the respiratory system, leading to slow and shallow breathing. Naloxone, as an opioid receptor antagonist, rapidly reverses this effect, leading to a noticeable increase in the client's respiratory rate. Monitoring for improved breathing and increased oxygen saturation is crucial to assessing the effectiveness of naloxone in treating opioid overdose.

Given the older client's history of heart failure and current diagnosis of influenza, it is important for the nurse to ensure that appropriate infection control measures are being followed while providing care. In this scenario, the nurse observes the UAP wearing a gown and gloves to assist the client with sitting up to eat lunch. The nurse should review the need for the UAP to wear a face mask while in close contact with the client. Influenza is spread through respiratory droplets, so wearing a face mask is an important infection control measure to prevent the spread of the virus.

Reminding the UAP to apply a fitted respirator mask before entering the client's room may not be necessary in this situation, as a regular face mask may be sufficient for preventing the spread of influenza.

Additionally, the nurse should instruct the UAP to notify the nurse of any changes in the client's respiratory status. This will allow the nurse to monitor the client's condition closely and intervene promptly if needed.

Assigning the UAP to provide care for another client and assuming full care of the client may not be necessary, as long as appropriate infection control measures are being followed.