Asked by Walter Rutherford on May 19, 2024

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A patient is started on morphine via patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) to control persistent cancer pain.The nurse knows that to prevent central nervous system (CNS) depression the patient should do which of the following?

A) Monitor IV site for patency.
B) Monitor the patient closely for the 15 minutes.
C) Record baseline blood pressure and respiratory rates before the start of the medication.
D) Give a small dose of naloxone prior to starting the morphine.

Central Nervous System Depression

A decrease in the functioning of the brain and spinal cord, which can affect consciousness and respiratory rate, often caused by medications or toxins.

Morphine

A powerful opioid analgesic drug derived from the opium poppy, used primarily for pain relief in medical settings.

Patient-Controlled Analgesia

A method of pain management that allows patients to administer their own pain relief medication through a press of a button, using a pre-programmed pump.

  • Gain insight into the core concepts of pharmacological pain relief methods, distinguishing between opioid and non-opioid medications, and acknowledging their potential risks and adverse reactions.
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Verified Answer

TH
Teresa HarrisMay 21, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Another measure for treating severe persistent cancer pain is morphine given by continuous IV drip or intermittently by a PCA pump.When a patient starts on IV morphine,you need to prevent overdose and central nervous system depression.Record baseline blood pressure and respiratory rates before the infusion begins.Monitor the patient closely for the first hour of the infusion and then according to agency policy.If the patient's blood pressure or respirations decrease,reduce the infusion rate according to the health care provider's order or agency policy.Small IV doses of naloxone can be ordered for severe respiratory depression and to increase respiratory rate and depth but not to reverse the pain relief