A nurse is teaching a client who has chronic pain about nonpharmacological pain management techniques.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching? (Select all that apply.).

The correct answer is choice B. Check the client’s allergy history.

This is because morphine sulfate is a medication that can cause severe allergic reactions in some people, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

Therefore, the nurse should always check the client’s allergy history before administering any medication, especially opioids.

Choice A is wrong because assessing the client’s respiratory rate is not the first action the nurse should take.

Although morphine sulfate can cause respiratory depression, which is a serious side effect that needs to be monitored, the nurse should first ensure that the client is not allergic to the medication.

Choice C is wrong because reviewing the client’s medication record is not the first action the nurse should take.

Although morphine sulfate can interact with other medications, such as sedatives, antidepressants, or alcohol, which can increase the risk of respiratory depression or overdose, the nurse should first ensure that the client is not allergic to the medication.

Choice D is wrong because verifying the dosage with another nurse is not the first action the nurse should take.

Although morphine sulfate is a high-alert medication that requires double-checking to prevent medication errors, the nurse should first ensure that the client is not allergic to the medication.

The correct answer is choice B.Methadone blocks the euphoric effects of heroin and discourages its use.Methadone is a synthetic opioid analgesic that produces a cross-tolerance to other narcotics, thereby preventing the user from feeling the high of heroin.Methadone also reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings for heroin.

Choice A is wrong because methadone does not prevent withdrawal symptoms, but rather reduces them.

Choice C is wrong because methadone does not stimulate opioid receptors, but rather occupies them and blocks their activation by heroin.

Choice D is wrong because methadone does not reverse the respiratory depression caused by heroin overdose, but rather carries a risk of overdose itself.