Population Specific Care Related

Review Population Specific Care related questions and content

A nurse cares for a rape victim who was given flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) by the assailant. Which intervention has priority? Monitoring for:

  • A. Coma
  • B. Seizures
  • C. Hypotonia
  • D. Respiratory depression
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Respiratory depression. Flunitrazepam is a sedative-hypnotic drug that can cause central nervous system depression, leading to respiratory depression, which is life-threatening. Monitoring respiratory status is crucial to prevent respiratory failure.

A: Coma may occur but is a consequence of severe respiratory depression, hence monitoring respiratory status is more critical.
B: Seizures are not a common side effect of flunitrazepam and do not pose immediate life-threatening risks compared to respiratory depression.
C: Hypotonia (muscle weakness) is a potential side effect but does not require immediate intervention like respiratory depression.

In summary, monitoring for respiratory depression is the priority as it can lead to respiratory failure and death, while the other choices are not as immediately life-threatening.