Question

The nurse is preparing to administer an opioid analgesic to the patient. Which item in the patient's current medication list should be a concern to the nurse?

Answer 1

A nurse should be concerned about other opioids or central nervous system depressants in a patient's medication list when preparing to administer an opioid analgesic due to the risk of respiratory depression, potential overdose, and addiction.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse is preparing to administer an opioid analgesic to a patient, careful review of the patient's current medications is essential to prevent harmful interactions. Among the medications that could be of concern are other opioids, whether natural or synthetic, such as morphine, oxycodone, methadone, and hydrocodone, due to the risk of respiratory depression and potential overdose when combined with another opioid. Non-opioid medications that depress the central nervous system, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, should also draw attention because they exacerbate the sedative effects of opioids and increase the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression.

It is also important to note that the risk of addiction with opioids is high, even for patients who are taking them as prescribed. The nurse should be aware of the signs of opioid addiction and be prepared to provide or coordinate care accordingly. Alternatives for pain management should be considered if the patient has a history of substance abuse or there are safer and equally effective options available.