Opioid Narcotics

Question 1

What are common side effects of opioids?

Answer 1

1. Sedation
2. Respiratory depression
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Itching
5. Hypotension
6. Constipation

Question 2

How should IV opioids be administered?

Answer 2

Slowly (over two minutes)

Question 3

What is the peak action of IV Fentanyl?

Answer 3

15 minutes

Question 4

What is the peak action of IV Dilaudid?

Answer 4

5-20 minutes

Question 5

What is the peak action for oxycodone or hydrocodone?

Answer 5

30 minutes-1 hour

Question 6

What is the duration of action of IV Fentanyl?

Answer 6

30 minutes-1 hour

Question 7

What is the duration of action for IV Dilaudid?

Answer 7

2-4 hours

Question 8

Would you question an order for 0.5mg IV Dilaudid q3minutes prn for Severe Pain?

Answer 8

Yes-the peak action of Dilaudid is 5-20 minutes, so giving it more frequently than that can increase the risk of adverse effects like oversedation and respiratory depression.

Question 9

You are teaching your patient about their home prescription for oxycodone-acetaminophen (Percocet). You tell them they should avoid taking additional over the counter Tylenol because:

Answer 9

The 24-hour limit of Tylenol for adults is 4000mg and the patient must be aware this medication contains Tylenol.