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What is a high alert nursing implication for Morphine?

a. Assessing type of pain
b. Assess level of consciousness, BP, pulse, & respiration
c. Assess bowel function
d. Assess patient for confusion

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The high alert nursing implication for Morphine is closely monitoring the patient's level of consciousness, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration due to the risk of respiratory depression and other side effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

A high alert nursing implication for Morphine is assessing level of consciousness, BP, pulse, & respiration. Morphine is both an analgesic, which reduces pain without loss of consciousness, and a narcotic, which can induce drowsiness and loss of consciousness in higher doses. It is critical for nurses to monitor vital signs and patient response to safeguard against complications such as respiratory depression, hypotension, and altered mental states which can be life-threatening.

Respiratory depression is a particularly dangerous side effect of morphine, hence the regular monitoring of respiration rates is crucial. Nurses should also be aware of potential withdrawal symptoms and the reason a drug like methadone might be prescribed to manage physical dependence on opioids, such as heroin. This understanding assists in providing comprehensive care for patients undergoing pain management or addiction treatment.

The other options listed also represent important assessments for a patient on Morphine therapy; assessing type of pain to ensure Morphine is an appropriate treatment, assess bowel function as opioids can cause constipation, and assess patient for confusion as a potential side effect of opioid use.

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