A patient states that he has been taking Demerol 50 mg tablets four times a day for the past 5 years, but they are not working like they use to. The nurse is concerned that the patient has developed

a. addiction to Demerol.
b. physical dependence and tolerance.
c. physical dependence and addiction.
d. a method to withdraw himself off the medication.


B
Addiction is defined by a pattern of compulsive drug use that is characterized by an incessant longing for an opioid and the need to use it for effects other than pain relief. Tolerance is defined as a diminution of opioid effects over time. Physical dependence and tolerance to opioids may develop if the medication is given over a long period. Physical dependence is manifested by withdrawal symptoms when the opioid is abruptly stopped.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

The process in which children mature and take on the values of their families and their society is called _____

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Nursing

With which client should you always be alert for the possibility of pulmonary problems or pulmonary complications?

A. African Americans B. Native Americans C. Asians D. Whites

Nursing

A patient who is suffering from terminal cancer asks a nurse how massage decreases his pain. The nurse explains that in theory,

1. Massage blocks endorphins that, when released, inhibit pain receptors. 2. Massage stimulates the release of endorphins, which are thought to block the transmission of pain. 3. Massage assists endorphins in opening the gate and attaching to opiate receptors. 4. Massage stimulates opiate or pain receptors to release endorphins, and thereby essentially changes how the brain identifies pain.

Nursing

The nurse is caring for a male Middle-Eastern client. Which of the following questions would assist the nurse is evaluating the client's cultural needs?

A) Who or what is your greatest source of comfort? B) What do you do when you need to relax? C) What kinds of activities do you do in your spare time? D) How would you describe your role in your family?

Nursing