Question

Which client is at greater risk for respiratory depression while receiving opioids for analgesia?

A) An elderly chronic pain client with a hip fracture
B) A client with a heroin addiction and back pain
C) A young female client with advanced multiple myeloma
D) A child with an arm fracture and cystic fibrosis

Answer 1

A client with a heroin addiction and back pain is at greater risk for respiratory depression while receiving opioids for analgesia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client at greater risk for respiratory depression while receiving opioids for analgesia is option B) A client with a heroin addiction and back pain. Heroin is a highly potent opioid drug that can cause severe respiratory depression, especially when taken in high doses or in combination with other central nervous system depressants. Due to the addiction, the client may have built up tolerance to opioids, increasing the risk of accidental overdose and respiratory depression.