Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 78%
Simulated
The nurse administers naloxone to a client with opioid-induced respiratory depression. One hour later, nursing assessment reveals that the client has a respiratory rate of 4 breaths/minute, oxygen saturation of 75%, and is unable to be aroused. Which action should the nurse implement?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Naloxone has a shorter half-life than most opioids, so opioid-induced respiratory depression may persist. The clientÔÇÖs severe symptoms (respiratory rate of 4 breaths/min, oxygen saturation of 75%, unresponsiveness) indicate the initial dose was insufficient. Administering a second dose of naloxone is the priority to reverse the opioid effects and address the life-threatening hypoxia.