A patient has been treated for lung cancer for 3 years. Over the past few months, the patient has noticed that the opioid analgesic is not helping as much as it had previously and more medication is needed for the same pain relief. The nurse is aware that this patient is experiencing which of these?
Opioid abstinence syndrome
Opioid tolerance
Opioid toxicity
Opioid addiction
The Correct Answer is B
Opioid tolerance occurs when the body becomes less responsive to the effects of opioids over time. This means that higher doses of the medication are needed to achieve the same level of pain relief that was previously achieved with lower doses. Opioid tolerance is a common phenomenon in long-term opioid therapy and can occur in patients who have been using opioids for an extended period.
Opioid abstinence syndrome, also known as opioid withdrawal, refers to the set of symptoms that occur when a person abruptly stops or reduces their use of opioids after developing physical dependence.
Opioid toxicity refers to the harmful effects that occur when an individual takes an excessive dose of opioids, leading to potentially life-threatening complications. It is characterized by symptoms such as respiratory depression, sedation, pinpoint pupils, and decreased level of consciousness.
Opioid addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior, loss of control over opioid use, and continued use despite negative consequences.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Pin site care is essential to prevent infections and other complications associated with external fixation devices. The nurse should instruct the patient to clean the pin insertion sites daily with a sterile saline solution or as per healthcare provider's instructions. The patient should also observe for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage, and report any concerns to the healthcare provider.
Assessing the skin under the foam boot twice daily is not specific to external fixation devices, and it may not be relevant to this patient's care plan. The nurse should focus on teaching the patient about external fixation device care specifically.
Taking prophylactic antibiotics before any dental work for the rest of your life is not relevant to external fixation devices or right lower leg fractures. It is a recommendation for patients with certain heart conditions who may be at risk of developing infective endocarditis during dental procedures.
Removing the external fixator for the shower is not recommended as the device should be kept dry to prevent infections. The nurse should instruct the patient to cover the device with a waterproof dressing or plastic bag during showering to protect it from getting wet.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL indicates severe hypoglycemia, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Hypoglycemia can lead to confusion, altered mental status, seizures, and loss of consciousness if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to assess and intervene quickly to raise the patient's blood glucose level to a safe range.
While the other clients mentioned also require attention and appropriate care, the severity and immediate risk associated with severe hypoglycemia make it the priority situation. The nurse should initiate appropriate treatment for hypoglycemia, such as administering glucose or glucagon, and closely monitor the patient's response.
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