A patient with metastatic cancer who was taking hydromorphone orally at home is now receiving the medication intravenously while in the hospital.
To evaluate if the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of the hydromorphone, which assessment should the nurse complete?
Respiratory rate.
Pain scale.
Blood pressure.
Level of consciousness.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While monitoring the respiratory rate is important in a patient receiving opioids like hydromorphone, it does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of the medication.
Choice B rationale
Pain scale assessment is the most direct way to evaluate if the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone. Equianalgesic refers to a dose of one opioid that would provide the same level of pain relief as a given dose of another opioid. If the patient’s pain is well-controlled, it suggests that the dose of hydromorphone is equianalgesic to the dose of the previous opioid.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring blood pressure is important in a patient receiving opioids as these medications can cause hypotension. However, blood pressure does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone.
Choice D rationale
While it’s important to monitor the level of consciousness in a patient receiving opioids as these medications can cause sedation, it does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Roast pork is a protein source and does not contribute to fiber content. However, fresh strawberries are high in fiber and may not be suitable for a low-fiber diet.
Choice B rationale
Roasted turkey is a good source of protein and does not contribute to fiber content. Canned vegetables are typically lower in fiber than their fresh or frozen counterparts because the canning process tends to degrade some of the fiber. Therefore, this food selection indicates that the patient understands the prescribed low-fiber diet.
Choice C rationale
Both baked potatoes with skin and raw carrots are high in fiber. The skin of the potato and raw carrots contain insoluble fiber, which may not be suitable for a patient with ulcerative colitis on a low-fiber diet.
Choice D rationale
Pancakes made from refined flour can be part of a low-fiber diet. However, whole-grain cereals are high in fiber and may not be suitable for a patient with ulcerative colitis on a low-fiber diet.
Correct Answer is C,A,D,B
Explanation
Step 1: Observe breathing patterns. Respiratory depression is a critical symptom of myxedema coma that requires immediate attention.
Step 2: Measure body temperature. Hypothermia is a common symptom of myxedema coma and can provide important information about the severity of the patient’s condition.
Step 3: Assess blood pressure. Hypotension can occur in myxedema coma and can indicate the severity of the patient’s condition.
Step 4: Palpate for pedal edema. While this can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, it is not typically a primary concern in a patient showing signs of myxedema coma.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.