A patient receiving large doses of opioids is lethargic and difficult to arouse, with a respiratory rate of 6 per minute and constricted pupils. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate being prescribed?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described suggest opioid overdose and respiratory depression. Naloxone is a specific opioid antagonist that can quickly reverse these effects by blocking the opioid receptors. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and sedation, but it would not be appropriate in this situation as it can further depress respiratory function. Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat fluid overload, but it would not address the opioid overdose. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines, but it is not effective against opioids.

A Patient Receiving Large Doses of Opioids Is Lethargic and Difficult