A client is being discharged with a prescription for oxycodone HCl (Oxycontin). Which discharge instructions are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected.

1. Increase the dose of oxycodone if the pain returns.
2. Maintain adequate fluid intake.
3. Withhold the medication if respirations are fewer than 12 breaths per minute.
4. Use OTC sleep-inducing antihistamines when needed.
5. Use OTC medications for constipation, if needed

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2, 3, 5

Rationale 1: The dose of this medication should not be increased without instruction to do so by the physician.
Rationale 2: The client should maintain adequate fluid intake to help prevent constipation.
Rationale 3: The medication should be held if respirations are fewer than 12 breaths per minute.
Rationale 4: OTC sleep-inducing antihistamines should be avoided when a client is taking oxycodone.
Rationale 5: This medication can cause constipation; therefore, it is important to teach the client to use OTC medications to treat this, if needed.

Global Rationale: The client should maintain adequate fluid intake and can take OTC medications to help prevent constipation. The medication should be held if respirations are fewer than 12 breaths per minute. The dose of this medication should not be increased without instruction to do so by the physician. OTC sleep-inducing antihistamines should be avoided when a client is taking oxycodone.