A nurse is teaching a client who reports taking ginkgo biloba to improve his memory and peripheral arterial disease from atherosclerosis. The nurse should include which of the following potential side effects?

Choice A reason:

The statement “Please do not raise your voice at the children. I am the one who left the dishes in the sink.” is an example of effective communication. It demonstrates taking responsibility for one’s actions and addressing the issue calmly and directly. This approach helps to de-escalate potential conflict and promotes a respectful and constructive dialogue among family members. Effective communication in family therapy involves clear, honest, and respectful exchanges that foster understanding and resolution of issues.

Choice B reason:

The statement “If you keep saying that, I will tell everyone what you did last night.” is an example of ineffective communication. It is threatening and manipulative, which can escalate conflict and create a hostile environment. Such statements undermine trust and respect among family members, making it difficult to resolve issues constructively. Effective communication should avoid threats and focus on expressing feelings and concerns in a non-confrontational manner.

Choice C reason:

The statement “Can you tell me the reason you get upset each time I go to the mall?” is a step towards effective communication as it seeks to understand the other person’s feelings. However, it could be improved by using “I” statements to express personal feelings and concerns. For example, “I feel concerned when you get upset each time I go to the mall. Can we talk about it?” This approach reduces defensiveness and encourages open dialogue.

Choice D reason:

The statement “She is always bossing me around. Should she do that?” is an example of ineffective communication. It is accusatory and does not address the issue constructively. Effective communication should focus on specific behaviors and how they affect the individual, rather than making general accusations. For example, “I feel frustrated when I am told what to do. Can we discuss how we can share responsibilities more fairly?” This approach promotes understanding and cooperation.

Choice A reason:

Being sleepy but arousing when her name is called is a common side effect of morphine, which is a potent opioid analgesic. Morphine can cause drowsiness and sedation, but this is not necessarily an adverse effect unless it progresses to a state where the patient cannot be easily aroused. Therefore, while this is a side effect, it is not as concerning as respiratory depression.

Choice B reason:

A respiratory rate of 8/min is an adverse effect of morphine. Opioids like morphine can depress the respiratory center in the brain, leading to a decreased respiratory rate. Normal respiratory rates for adults are typically between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. A rate of 8 breaths per minute indicates significant respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate intervention.

Choice C reason:

A pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10 indicates that the morphine has not fully alleviated the client’s pain. While this is important to address, it is not an adverse effect of the medication. The primary concern with morphine administration is monitoring for serious side effects like respiratory depression.