Question

A client is admitted to the emergency department after taking an overdose of morphine sulfate. Priority should be given to monitoring the client for: A. Decreased urinary output B. Nausea and vomiting C. Respiratory depression D. Increased blood pressure

Short answer

Answer: Respiratory depression

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Morphine Sulfate Overdose's Effects

Morphine sulfate is an opioid analgesic, primarily prescribed for severe pain management. An overdose of morphine sulfate may cause a range of symptoms including respiratory depression, nausea and vomiting, decreased urinary output, and changes in blood pressure. The priority in monitoring the client is to identify the symptom that is the most life-threatening or has the potential for the most severe adverse outcomes.

Analyzing the Symptoms

Let's analyze each of the given symptoms to understand their potential adverse outcomes: A. Decreased urinary output - While an important symptom to monitor, it is not life-threatening in the short term. B. Nausea and vomiting - These symptoms can cause discomfort and potential dehydration, but are also not life-threatening in the short term. C. Respiratory depression - This is the most life-threatening symptom as it means the client is having difficulty breathing or not breathing at all. Morphine sulfate affects the respiratory system's ability to respond to increased carbon dioxide levels, which can lead to dangerous levels of carbon dioxide in the blood and, in severe cases, death. D. Increased blood pressure - While increased blood pressure can lead to long-term problems, it is not an immediate life-threatening concern.

Identifying the Priority Symptom for Monitoring

Based on the analysis of the given symptoms, we can identify that the most critical symptom for which priority should be given to monitoring the client is respiratory depression. It is the most life-threatening symptom of a morphine sulfate overdose, and early intervention can help prevent serious adverse outcomes.

Choosing the Correct Answer and Ending the Exercise

Now that we have identified that the top priority in monitoring the client with a morphine sulfate overdose should be respiratory depression, we can choose the correct answer from the given options: C. Respiratory depression In conclusion, after analyzing the symptoms, we have determined that the most crucial symptom to monitor in a client with a morphine sulfate overdose is respiratory depression (Option C).