A client with an oxycodone overdose has a respiratory rate of 8 and is difficult to arouse. Which prescribed treatment should the nurse anticipate administering?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An oxycodone overdose can cause respiratory depression, which if severe can lead to respiratory arrest. A respiratory rate of 8 and difficulty arousing indicate severe respiratory depression. Opioid antagonists such as naloxone are the treatment of choice to reverse the effects of opioid overdose and restore normal breathing. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system from naloxone administration can cause agitation and hypertension; therefore, continuous monitoring of the patient is necessary. Activated charcoal may be used in conjunction with oral ingestions of certain toxins, but it is not effective for opioid overdose. Administering an opioid agonist would be contraindicated since the client is already experiencing respiratory depression. Preparing for intubation and mechanical ventilation may be necessary if the client's respiratory depression does not respond to opioid antagonist therapy, but it is not the first-line treatment.

A Client with an Oxycodone Overdose Has a Respiratory Rate