Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank - Substance Use Disorder Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank - Substance Use Disorder related questions and content

A patient has been taking naltrexone as part of the treatment for addiction to heroin. The nurse expects that the naltrexone will have which therapeutic effect for this patient?

  • A. Naltrexone prevents the cravings for opioid drugs.
  • B. Naltrexone works as a safer substitute for the heroin until the patient completes withdrawal.
  • C. The patient will experience flushing, sweating, and severe nausea if he takes heroin while on naltrexone.
  • D. If opioid drugs are used while taking naltrexone, euphoria is not produced; thus, the opioid's desired effects are lost.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, preventing the euphoria associated with heroin use, thus reducing the reinforcing effects of the drug. It does not directly prevent cravings, act as a substitute, or cause severe nausea like disulfiram does with alcohol.