Question

Which of the following should be assessed prior to administration of opioid analgesics?

1) Patient's pain level
2) Patient's medical history
3) Patient's allergies
4) Patient's vital signs

Answer 1

Prior to the administration of opioid analgesics, healthcare providers should assess the patient's pain level, medical history, allergies, and vital signs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Prior to the administration of opioid analgesics, several factors should be assessed including the patient's pain level, medical history, allergies, and vital signs.

Assessing the patient's pain level is important to determine the appropriate dosage and frequency of opioid administration. The healthcare provider needs to understand the intensity and nature of the pain in order to prescribe the correct type and dosage of analgesic.

Evaluating the patient's medical history is essential as certain conditions or medications may affect the choice or dosage of opioid analgesics. For example, patients with respiratory or liver problems may require adjusted doses or alternative pain relief options.

Checking for any allergies is crucial to avoid adverse reactions. Some patients may be allergic to opioids or other components of the medication, and alternative pain management strategies may be necessary.

Finally, assessing the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, is necessary to ensure the patient is stable and can safely tolerate opioid analgesics.