Question

During LM's postoperative period, when might the nurse expect signs of withdrawal to occur? What are some signs and symptoms of withdrawal?

a) Immediately post-op; increased heart rate, anxiety, and tremors
b) 24-72 hours post-op; nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps
c) 1 week post-op; hallucinations and seizures
d) No withdrawal expected postoperatively

Answer 1

Withdrawal symptoms, which may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, typically present 24-72 hours post-operatively. Methadone is prescribed to those with heroin addiction to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings due to its action on opioid receptors.

Step-by-step explanation:

During LM's postoperative period, signs of withdrawal typically could appear within 24-72 hours post-op, so the correct answer is b) 24-72 hours post-op; nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Withdrawal symptoms differ depending on the substance from which the individual is withdrawing; however, some common signs and symptoms of withdrawal include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, changes in blood pressure and heart rate, increased heart rate, anxiety, tremors, craving for the substance, headaches, irritability, sleep disturbances, hunger, difficulty concentrating, and potential hallucinations and seizures.

A person with a heroin addiction may be prescribed the psychoactive drug methadone because it helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings by acting on the same opioid receptors as heroin, while providing a more controlled and less euphoric effect. Methadone maintenance therapy can facilitate the individual's recovery process and transition away from heroin use.