Wk 4 Opioids

Question 1

All opioids are…

Answer 1

high alert drugs

Question 2

3 chemical classes of opioids

Answer 2

morphine-like
meperidine-like
methadone-like

Question 3

When giving opioids

Answer 3

assess level of consciousness
BP
pulse
respirations
then assess periodically after

Question 4

HOLD opioid…

Answer 4

if respiratory rate < 10/min, assess level of sedation
- physical stimulation may be sufficient enough to prevent significant hypoventilation
- if not enough, subsequent doses may need to be decreased by 25-50%
- initial drowsiness will diminish with continued use

Question 5

Nursing considerations for the “opioid naive” patient

Answer 5

• crucial to know your patient, experience with opioids
• know baseline neurological status
• always start with lowest dose unless OVERT signs of SEVERE pain
• PO vs. IV considerations = IV is more potent, PO is preferred

Question 6

Nursing considerations and opioids

Answer 6

Watch for common side effects and proactively treat
Constipation= VERY COMMON
- Stool softeners, hydration, nutrition
- Can progress to paralytic ileus, especially in the post-op patient
Nausea & vomiting
- May need to give with an anti-emetic