Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed extended-release Morphine. The nurse should recognize which of the following assessment cues as an indication of opioid overdose?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Slow, shallow breathing. Opioid overdose can cause respiratory depression, leading to slow and shallow breathing. This is a serious sign of overdose as it can progress to respiratory arrest. Increased heart rate (A) is more commonly associated with opioid withdrawal. Constricted pupils (C) are a sign of opioid use, not overdose. Increased motor activity (D) is not indicative of opioid overdose as opioids typically cause sedation, not increased activity.