Question

The adolescent receiving morphine IV for pain control needs which included in his nursing care plan (NCP)? Select all that apply.

Option 1: Monitoring respiratory status.
Option 2: Encouraging increased physical activity.
Option 3: Providing adequate fluid intake.
Option 4: Assessing for signs of constipation.

Answer 1

The nursing care plan for an adolescent receiving morphine IV should include monitoring respiratory status, providing adequate fluid intake, and assessing for signs of constipation. Physical activity is not usually encouraged immediately due to the sedative effects of morphine.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nursing Care Plan for an Adolescent Receiving Morphine IV

When considering the nursing care plan (NCP) for an adolescent receiving morphine intravenously, it's important to select the appropriate interventions to manage potential side effects and ensure patient safety. Morphine, an opioid medication obtained from the opium poppy plant, is often used for pain control before and after surgical procedures. The interventions to include in the NCP are:

• Monitoring respiratory status: Opioids like morphine can depress respiratory function, making it essential to monitor the patient's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation regularly.
• Providing adequate fluid intake: This helps to prevent dehydration and maintain kidney function, which can be affected by opioid use.
• Assessing for signs of constipation: Opioids commonly cause gastrointestinal motility to slow down, leading to constipation, so monitoring bowel movements and promoting bowel care is essential.

Encouraging increased physical activity is generally not recommended as part of the immediate care plan for a patient on IV morphine, as the patient might be in a recovery phase and the medication could cause drowsiness and impair the ability to move safely.