Question

Why might narcotics be avoided in a patient where you need to frequently assess neurological status?

a) They can cause respiratory depression
b) They elevate blood pressure
c) They increase intracranial pressure
d) They impair renal function

Answer 1

Narcotics are avoided in patients requiring frequent neurological assessments because they can cause respiratory depression, affecting the accuracy of such assessments.

Step-by-step explanation:

Narcotics may be avoided in patients where frequent neurological assessment is necessary because they can cause respiratory depression. This is a significant concern because if a patient's breathing is compromised, it can lead to inadequate oxygenation of the brain and other organs, which can be especially critical when neurological status needs to be assessed and monitored closely. For example, combining narcotics with other central nervous system depressants can enhance the risk of severe respiratory depression due to their additive effects. It's important to avoid these risks in neurological patients where alertness and respiratory function must be maintained to assess their condition accurately and respond effectively to changes in their neurological status.