A client with terminal cancer has a respiratory rate of 10 and requests a dose of prescribed morphine. Which action should the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory rate of 10 may indicate impending death and is not a contraindication for administering morphine in a palliative care setting. Morphine can be used to manage pain and dyspnea in end-of-life care, and the nurse should administer the prescribed dose as ordered. Nonpharmacological interventions can also be implemented to promote comfort, but they should not delay the administration of prescribed medications for symptom management. Administering an NSAID is not indicated in this scenario, as it would not effectively manage the client's symptoms.

A Client with Terminal Cancer Has a Respiratory Rate of 10