Final answer:
Side effects from prolonged opioid use can include symptoms such as sweating, vomiting, pruritus, sedation, and constipation. Opioid tolerance and physical dependence are also concerns, requiring careful medical supervision to manage these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client with a life-threatening illness who has been treated with repeated doses of opioids over several weeks may exhibit several side effects related to the medication administration. The symptoms that indicate the client is experiencing side effects from opioids include:
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Pruritus (itching)
- Sedation
- Constipation
These symptoms are a result of the body's response to the presence of opioids and can be exacerbated by prolonged use. Opioid tolerance may also develop, which means a higher dosage of the medication may be needed to achieve the same level of pain relief. Furthermore, physical dependence can occur, leading to withdrawal symptoms if the medication is suddenly stopped. Managing these side effects requires careful monitoring and medical supervision, especially since misuse of opioids can lead to addiction and, in extreme cases, overdose and death.