A nurse is teaching about preventing constipation to a client who has a new prescription for oxycodone. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes are not linked to morphine toxicity. Morphine, an opioid, depresses the central nervous system, reducing reflexes. Hyperactive reflexes suggest neurological or stimulant effects, not opioid overdose, which primarily causes respiratory and consciousness depression in affected clients.
Choice B reason: Fluid retention is not a primary sign of morphine toxicity. Morphine may cause urinary retention via sphincter tone increase, but fluid overload is unrelated. Toxicity manifests as respiratory depression or sedation, driven by mu-opioid receptor overstimulation, not fluid balance alterations.
Choice C reason: Prolonged QT interval is associated with medications like antiarrhythmics, not morphine. Morphine toxicity primarily causes respiratory depression and sedation via central nervous system effects. Cardiac effects are rare, and QT prolongation is not a hallmark of opioid overdose in clinical settings.
Choice D reason: Bradypnea indicates morphine toxicity, as opioids depress the brainstem’s respiratory center via mu-receptor overstimulation. This slows breathing, risking hypoxia and respiratory arrest, a life-threatening complication requiring immediate intervention like naloxone to reverse opioid effects and restore normal respiratory function.

Choice A reason: Using a cane provides stability and reduces fall risk for clients with multiple sclerosis, who often experience muscle weakness or balance issues. This assistive device promotes safe mobility, aligning with evidence-based safety strategies, making it the correct precaution for home care.
Choice B reason: Walking with feet close together decreases stability, increasing fall risk in multiple sclerosis due to impaired coordination. A wider stance is recommended for balance, making this precaution incorrect and potentially dangerous for the client’s safety.
Choice C reason: Avoiding orthotics is not advisable, as they can support mobility and prevent foot drop in multiple sclerosis. Orthotics improve safety and function, so discouraging their use is counterproductive, making this an incorrect recommendation for home safety.
Choice D reason: A rigorous range-of-motion exercise plan may cause fatigue or injury in multiple sclerosis, where moderated exercise is preferred. Overexertion exacerbates symptoms, so this plan is unsafe and inappropriate, making it incorrect for promoting client safety.