Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders related questions and content

When discussing the purpose of beginning methadone therapy for opioid addiction, which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?

  • A. It is not addictive for heroin users.
  • B. It takes away the desire for narcotics.
  • C. There are no withdrawal symptoms.
  • D. Less time will be spent in drug-seeking behaviors.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of using methadone in the management of opioid addicts remains controversial. Methadone has a longer half-life and can be given as a once daily dose. Methadone is safer than heroin and allows the client to work, live, and function normally because less time is spent on drug-seeking behaviors and unsafe drug practices. Methadone is a schedule II synthetic opioid analgesic and has dependency and withdrawal capabilities. The use of methadone does not take away desires for narcotics and urine testing should be routinely completed to deter combined use.