Question

A pt w cancer uses a transdermal fentanyl patch for chronic pain. Which action by the nurse is most important for patient safety?

Monitor for constipation, place the old patch in a sharps container, monitor for physical dependence/addiction, assess for N/V

Answer 1

The most vital action by the nurse is to monitor the patient using a transdermal fentanyl patch for physical dependence and potential addiction due to the high risk associated with this potent opioid.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important action by the nurse for patient safety when managing a patient using a transdermal fentanyl patch is to monitor for physical dependence/addiction. Fentanyl is an opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, and the risk of overdose and addiction is significant. Due to the drug's potency, monitoring for signs of addiction as well as physical dependence is crucial.

In cases of addiction, treatment may include psychotherapy and support groups, with the potential use of methadone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone, as a psychoactive drug, is used in the treatment of heroin addiction because it minimizes the withdrawal symptoms without causing the 'high' associated with heroin. Other precautions such as placing the old patch in a sharps container and assessing for N/V are also important but secondary to the need for monitoring addiction risks.