Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data on a client who received an opioid narcotic for incisional pain. Which of the following findings is the priority?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Pulse oximetry. Monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial in clients receiving opioid narcotics due to the risk of respiratory depression. Decreased oxygen saturation indicates inadequate ventilation, which can be life-threatening. Blood pressure (B) and pain level (D) are important but not as urgent as monitoring oxygen levels. Level of sedation (C) is also important but can be assessed after ensuring adequate oxygenation. Other choices were not provided, but they would likely be less critical in this scenario compared to monitoring oxygen saturation.