Adult Health 1 Exam 1 Related

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A client is receiving morphine for pain management. What is the most important assessment for the nurse to perform?

  • A. Check the client's respiratory rate
  • B. Assess the client's pain level
  • C. Monitor the client's blood pressure
  • D. Evaluate the client's level of consciousness
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the client's respiratory rate. Morphine can lead to respiratory depression, which makes it crucial for the nurse to monitor the client's breathing closely. Assessing the respiratory rate helps in early detection of potential respiratory depression and allows prompt intervention. While assessing pain level (choice B) is important, monitoring the respiratory status takes precedence due to the risk of respiratory depression with morphine. Monitoring blood pressure (choice C) is relevant but not as crucial as assessing respiratory status in a client receiving morphine. Evaluating the level of consciousness (choice D) is also important but does not directly address the immediate risk associated with morphine administration.