Final answer:
Patients with an opioid epidural catheter should be monitored for urinary retention, nausea, itching, and respiratory depression. Urinary frequency is not expected. Respiratory depression is a critical side effect requiring vigilant surveillance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should prepare to monitor the patient with an opioid epidural catheter for several common side effects that can result from opioid use. The side effects to watch for include:
- Urinary retention
- Nausea
- Itching
- Respiratory depression
Urinary frequency is not typically a side effect of opioids; rather, patients may experience urinary retention, as opioids can cause relaxation of the detrusor muscles of the bladder. Nausea and itching are relatively common side effects. Respiratory depression is the most serious side effect and involves a reduction in the urge to breathe and can be life-threatening, hence requires careful monitoring.