Final answer:
The patient and family should be informed that fentanyl can cause possible constipation and drowsiness as adverse effects. It is important to be aware of these side effects, as well as the risk of addiction and overdose due to fentanyl's potency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should plan to inform the patient and family members that the patient may experience possible constipation and drowsiness as adverse effects of the fentanyl patches. Fentanyl is a potent opioid that, in addition to its analgesic effects, can lead to various side effects, including central nervous system depression, which may cause drowsiness, and gastrointestinal effects such as constipation. As a narcotic, fentanyl can also lead to physical dependence and the risk of addiction should always be kept in mind. Due to the strength of fentanyl, which is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, education about preventing overdose is essential. The nurse should ensure that the patient and family are aware of the signs of overdose and the steps to take in case of an emergency.