2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
Nurses caring for clients who have cancer and are taking opioids need to assess for all of the following except:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nurses caring for clients on opioids must monitor for tolerance, constipation, and sedation, as these are common effects of opioid use. Tolerance refers to the body's adaptation to medication, requiring higher doses for the same effect. Constipation is a prevalent side effect due to opioids' impact on the gastrointestinal system, necessitating regular assessment. Sedation is also crucial to monitor for safety, as excessive sedation can lead to respiratory depression. In contrast, addiction is a complex issue that involves psychological dependence and is less likely to develop in patients using opioids for legitimate medical reasons, making it less of a primary focus in this context.