The nurse is preparing to provide an opioid medication for surgical pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
a. Determine the respiratory rate.
b. Observe the patient's skin color.
c. Take the patient's oral temperature.
d. Ask the patient when he last ate something.
ANS: A
Opioids are respiratory depressants, and respiratory function is a priority. Skin color, temperature, and oral intake may be helpful, but they are not most important.
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