Question

The nurse is assisting in preparing a plan of care for a client with a diagnosis of cancer who is receiving morphine sulfate in an extended format by mouth. The nurse should include which priority nursing action in the plan of care for this client?

A. Administering the medication on an empty stomach
B. Monitoring for signs of opioid overdose
C. Encouraging increased fluid intake
D. Providing a stool softener to prevent constipation

Answer 1

The nurse should include providing a stool softener to prevent constipation, monitoring for signs of opioid overdose, and encouraging fluid intake in the plan of care for a client receiving extended format morphine sulfate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include providing a stool softener to prevent constipation as a priority nursing action in the plan of care for a client with a diagnosis of cancer who is receiving extended format morphine sulfate by mouth. Morphine is an opioid medication that can cause constipation as a side effect. Providing a stool softener can help prevent constipation and promote bowel regularity.

In addition to providing a stool softener, it is also important for the nurse to monitor for signs of opioid overdose. Morphine is a potent opioid that can cause respiratory depression and other overdose symptoms. Monitoring the client's respiratory rate, level of consciousness, and other vital signs is essential.

While it is important to encourage fluid intake for overall hydration, it is not a priority nursing action specific to the use of morphine sulfate. Administering the medication on an empty stomach is also not a priority nursing action for this client.