Nursing Process Exam Questions Related

Review Nursing Process Exam Questions related questions and content

A client in the terminal stage of cancer is receiving continuous infusion of morphine (Duramorph) for pain management. Which assessment finding suggests that the client is experiencing an adverse effect of this drug?

  • A. Voiding of 350mL of concentrated urine in
  • B. Irregular heart rate of 82 beats/min
  • C. Pupils constricted and equal
  • D. Respiratory rate of 8breaths/min
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min indicates respiratory depression, a serious adverse effect of morphine. Morphine is a central nervous system depressant that can suppress the respiratory drive, leading to hypoventilation and potentially respiratory failure. This is a life-threatening complication that requires immediate intervention.

A: Voiding of 350mL of concentrated urine is not typically associated with morphine use.
B: An irregular heart rate of 82 beats/min is within a normal range and not a common adverse effect of morphine.
C: Pupils constricted and equal is a common side effect of morphine due to its action on the central nervous system, not necessarily indicating an adverse effect.