Adult Health Nursing Answer Key Related

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A patient is prescribed an opioid analgesic for the management of acute pain. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?

  • A. Hypertension
  • B. Hypoglycemia
  • C. Respiratory depression
  • D. Hyperkalemia
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Opioid analgesics are known to suppress the respiratory centers in the brain, leading to respiratory depression as a side effect. This adverse effect is particularly dangerous and potentially life-threatening, especially in patients who are opioid-naive or when high doses are administered. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to closely monitor the patient's respiratory rate, depth, and effort while on opioid analgesic therapy to detect early signs of respiratory depression and intervene promptly to prevent complications. Hypertension, hypoglycemia, and hyperkalemia are not commonly associated with opioid analgesics.