The client was given 15 mg of morphine IM for postsurgical pain. When the nurse checks the client for pain relief 1 hour later, the client is sleeping and has a respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min. What is the nurse's first action?

Question

a. Administering naloxone (Narcan) IV push
b. Administering oxygen by nasal cannula
c. Arousing the client by calling his or her name
d. Documenting the findings and continuing to monitor

Answer 1

C
Many clients experience some degree of respiratory depression with opioid analgesics. If the client can be aroused with minimally intrusive techniques and the rate of respiration is increased spontaneously, no further intervention is required.