Question

the nurse is caring for a postoperative client with a history of opioid abuse who has been ordered to receive a dose of an opioid antagonist medication. which issues should the nurse be prepared to address?

Answer 1

1. Risk of withdrawal symptoms

2. Possible development of tolerance to the medication

3. Possible need for tapering the dose of the antagonist

4. Possible need for additional supportive medications

5. Possible psychological effects of the opioid antagonist

6. Risk of adverse reactions to the antagonist