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Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms ( 9 Questions)
A nurse is assessing a client who has a history of opioid abuse and is experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Rationale: Opioid withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of sympathetic nervous system activation and include hypertension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, restlessness, anxiety, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
These are signs of opioid intoxication or overdose, not withdrawal.
These are also signs of opioid intoxication or overdose, not withdrawal.
These are signs of stimulant abuse or withdrawal, not opioid withdrawal.
Correct answer: a) Hypertension, tachycardia, and diaphoresis
Rationale: Opioid withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of sympathetic nervous system activation and include hypertension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, restlessness, anxiety, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Incorrect choices:
b) Hypotension, bradycardia, and constipation: These are signs of opioid intoxication or overdose, not withdrawal.
c) Hypothermia, lethargy, and miosis: These are also signs of opioid intoxication or overdose, not withdrawal.
d) Hyperthermia, agitation, and mydriasis: These are signs of stimulant abuse or withdrawal, not opioid withdrawal.