The nurse is caring for a postoperative client who returned from surgery a few hours ago.The client is currently demonstrating shallow,slow breathing,with audible adventitious sounds.Which is the most likely cause for the client's clinical manifestations?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client is demonstrating signs of respiratory depression which is a common side effect of narcotic sedation. The shallow, slow breathing along with adventitious sounds suggest that the client may need stimulation to fully awaken and take deep breaths to improve their respiratory status. Low blood sugar, pneumonia, and asthma may also cause respiratory distress, but they are less likely in a postoperative client who was previously breathing normally.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Postoperative Client Who Returned