A patient receiving Morphine for postoperative pain relief displays slow, shallow breathing with a rate of 8 breaths/minute. The nurse recognizes this as a side effect called:
Miosis
Sedation
Respiratory depression
Euphoria
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Miosis is the constriction of the pupils, which can also be caused by morphine, but it is not a life-threatening side effect. Miosis occurs because morphine stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the muscles that constrict the pupils¹.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Sedation is the state of being calm, relaxed, and sleepy, which can also be caused by morphine, but it is not a life-threatening side effect. Sedation occurs because morphine depresses the central nervous system, which reduces the activity of the brain and the body.
Choice C reason: This is correct. Respiratory depression is the slowing down of breathing, which can be a life-threatening side effect of morphine. Respiratory depression occurs because morphine depresses the respiratory center in the brainstem, which regulates the rate and depth of breathing. If the breathing becomes too slow or shallow, the patient may not get enough oxygen and may lose consciousness or die.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Euphoria is the feeling of intense happiness, pleasure, or wellbeing, which can also be caused by morphine, but it is not a life-threatening side effect. Euphoria occurs because morphine stimulates the reward system in the brain, which releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that causes positive emotions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: "I am not ready to eat lunch yet." is not a concerning statement for the patient who has completed their Albuterol nebulizer treatment. Albuterol is a medication that relaxes the muscles in the airways and increases the airflow to the lungs, which can improve the breathing and reduce the wheezing in patients with asthma¹. Albuterol does not affect the appetite or the digestion directly, but it may cause some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or dry mouth, which may reduce the desire to eat. The nurse should respect the patient's preference and offer them food later when they are ready.
Choice B reason: "It feels like my heart is racing." is a concerning statement for the patient who has completed their Albuterol nebulizer treatment. Albuterol is a medication that relaxes the muscles in the airways and increases the airflow to the lungs, but it also stimulates the beta receptors in the heart, which can increase the heart rate and the blood pressure¹. This can cause side effects such as palpitations, chest pain, or arrhythmias, especially in patients with underlying heart conditions or those who take other medications that affect the heart. The nurse should monitor the patient's vital signs, report the finding to the prescriber, and prepare to administer interventions such as betablockers or calcium channel blockers to lower the heart rate and prevent complications.
Choice C reason: "It is easier to breathe now." is not a concerning statement for the patient who has completed their Albuterol nebulizer treatment. Albuterol is a medication that relaxes the muscles in the airways and increases the airflow to the lungs, which can improve the breathing and reduce the wheezing in patients with asthma¹. This is the expected and desired outcome of the Albuterol nebulizer treatment, which indicates that the medication is effective and the patient is responding well. The nurse should document the patient's response and continue to assess the patient's respiratory status and oxygen saturation.
Choice D reason: "I can breathe better now." is not a concerning statement for the patient who has completed their Albuterol nebulizer treatment. Albuterol is a medication that relaxes the muscles in the airways and increases the airflow to the lungs, which can improve the breathing and reduce the wheezing in patients with asthma¹. This is the expected and desired outcome of the Albuterol nebulizer treatment, which indicates that the medication is effective and the patient is responding well. The nurse should document the patient's response and continue to assess the patient's respiratory status and oxygen saturation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: 3% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution that can cause fluid shifts and dehydration. It is not a suitable replacement for TPN, which is also hypertonic but provides calories, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Infusing 3% sodium chloride can lead to hypernatremia, increased intracranial pressure, and cellular damage.
Choice B reason: Dextrose 10% in water is a hypertonic solution that can provide some calories and prevent hypoglycemia. It is the best option among the choices to replace TPN temporarily, until the new container arrives. However, it does not provide adequate nutrition or electrolytes, so it should not be used for a long time.
Choice C reason: Lactated Ringer's is an isotonic solution that can maintain fluid balance and electrolytes. It is not a suitable replacement for TPN, which is hypertonic and provides more calories and nutrients. Infusing Lactated Ringer's can lead to fluid overload, hyponatremia, and metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D reason: 0.9% sodium chloride is an isotonic solution that can maintain fluid balance and sodium levels. It is not a suitable replacement for TPN, which is hypertonic and provides more calories and nutrients. Infusing 0.9% sodium chloride can lead to fluid overload, hyponatremia, and metabolic acidosis.
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