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 ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Based on the provided information, the following notations require immediate follow-up:
- Boggy fundus 1 cm above the umbilicus: A boggy (soft) fundus can indicate uterine atony, a condition in which the uterus fails to contract after delivery. This can lead to postpartum hemorrhage, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
- Fundus rotated to the right: A displaced fundus can be a sign of a distended bladder, which can interfere with uterine contraction and lead to postpartum hemorrhage.
- Blood pressure: 90/62 mm Hg: While this blood pressure isn’t extremely low, it is on the lower end of normal. Given the potential for postpartum hemorrhage indicated by the other findings, this should be monitored closely.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Canned chicken broth with barley is not the best choice for a patient with hypertension. Canned foods, including chicken broth, are often high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure.
Choice B rationale
Tomato juice and gluten-free crackers may seem like a healthy option, but tomato juice can be high in sodium. While gluten-free crackers can be part of a healthy diet, they don’t offer any specific benefits for controlling hypertension.
Choice C rationale
A plain baked sweet potato is an excellent choice for a patient with hypertension. Sweet potatoes are high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. They’re also a good source of fiber and are naturally low in sodium.
Choice D rationale
Dill pickles and black olives are both high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure. Therefore, they’re not a good choice for someone with hypertension.
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