Question

The nurse is teaching a client with cancer about opioid management for intractable pain and tolerance-related side effects. The nurse should prepare the client for which side effect that is most likely to persist during long-term use of opioids?

A) Constipation
B) Nausea
C) Sedation
D) Respiratory depression

Answer 1

The client should be prepared for the side effect of constipation during long-term use of opioids.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should prepare the client for the side effect of constipation that is most likely to persist during long-term use of opioids.

Tolerance refers to the need for increasing doses of medication to achieve the same level of pain relief. Long-term use of opioids can lead to constipation as a side effect, which is commonly experienced by patients.

To manage constipation caused by opioids, the nurse may recommend lifestyle changes, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, as well as the use of laxatives or stool softeners if necessary. Regular exercise and mobility can also help prevent and alleviate constipation.