When administering an opioid antagonist to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression, which of the following would be most important for the nurse to keep in mind? Select all that apply

Question

A) Monitoring is less frequent if respiratory depression occurs in the immediate postoperative setting.
B) The nurse should notify the primary health care provider if any adverse drug reactions occur.
C) After the client has shown a response to the drug, the nurse monitors vital signs every 30 to 60 minutes.
D) Monitoring of the client's respiratory status includes rate, rhythm, and depth.
E) The nurse monitors the client's blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate at frequent intervals, usually every 3 minutes, until the client responds.

Answer 1

Ans: B, D
Feedback:
As part of the ongoing assessment during the administration of the antagonist, continue to monitor the blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate at frequent intervals, usually every 5 minutes, until the client responds. This monitoring should be more frequent if respiratory depression occurs in the immediate postoperative setting. After the client has shown a response to the drug, monitor vital signs every 5 to 15 minutes. Notify the anesthesiologist or primary health care provider if any adverse drug reactions occur because additional medical treatment may be needed. Continue to monitor the respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth; pulse; blood pressure; and level of consciousness until the effects of the opioid wear off.