Question

While there is little risk for overdose with patient-controlled analgesic pumps, respiratory depression is a side effect associated with opioids, so while the patient is on opioid pain management, the nurse should regularly check respiratory rate. A nurse may check liver enzymes in a patient who is taking acetaminophen, not opioids, because acetaminophen can adversely affect the liver. Whereas blood pressure and body temperature may be checked regularly, it is unlikely that the nurse is doing this to monitor for side effects of opioid pain management.

A. Checking liver enzymes is crucial for monitoring opioid side effects.

B. Blood pressure and body temperature are primary indicators of opioid effectiveness.

C. Regular respiratory rate checks are essential in opioid pain management.

D. Monitoring liver function is unnecessary in opioid pain management.

Answer 1

Regular respiratory rate checks are crucial for monitoring patients on opioid pain management, while liver enzyme monitoring is associated with acetaminophen use, not opioids. Blood pressure and body temperature are not primary indicators of opioid effectiveness or safety, and naloxone can be used in the event of an overdose.

Step-by-step explanation:

Opioid Pain Management and Monitoring

When managing pain with opioids, it is critical to monitor patients for potential side effects due to the risks associated with these drugs. One of the most serious risks of opioid use is respiratory depression. Therefore, regular respiratory rate checks are essential in monitoring patients on opioid therapy. This is in contrast to the monitoring of liver enzymes, which is vital for patients taking acetaminophen, not opioids, as acetaminophen can adversely affect liver function. Additionally, while blood pressure and body temperature may be measured regularly as part of overall patient care, they are not primary indicators of opioid effectiveness or safety. Opioids like morphine, oxycodone, and codeine have analgesic properties, but also have a high potential for both addiction and overdose.

Patients under opioid treatment should be observed for signs of opioid addiction and misuse. Proper opioid use is essential to avoid the risk of overdose, which can result in respiratory arrest. In emergencies, naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including respiratory depression, but it is a short-term solution and does not replace the need for constant vigilance in monitoring respiratory rates of patients using opioids.