An older patient is hospitalized for the first time. After giving a dose of hydromorphone (Dilaudid), what assessment takes priority?

a. Pain level
b. Nausea
c. Urinary retention
d. Respiratory rate


D
Respiratory depression is common with opioid analgesics. All assessments are appropriate; however, respiratory assessment takes priority.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

The nurse notices a colleague is preparing to check the blood pressure of a patient who is obese by using a standard-sized blood pressure cuff. The nurse should expect the reading to:

a. Yield a falsely low blood pressure. b. Yield a falsely high blood pressure. c. Be the same, regardless of cuff size. d. Vary as a result of the technique of the person performing the assessment.

Nursing

A client has been diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome. What assessment does the nurse perform to detect vascular complications associated with this illness?

a. Auscultation of heart and lung sounds b. Assessment of blood pressure c. Daily weight using the same scale d. Monitoring of urine output every 24 hours

Nursing

In addition to following the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Privacy Act (HIPAA) of 1996 regulations, nurses must also develop good judgment about appropriate sharing of patient information

Indicate whether this statement is true or false.

Nursing

What unexpected adverse effect can elderly patients experience when taking an antihistaminic drug?

A. Paradoxical stimulation B. Respiratory depression C. Insomnia D. Extreme hypotension

Nursing