A patient who has just started taking sustained-release morphine sulfate (MS Contin) for chronic pain complains of nausea and abdominal fullness. The most appropriate initial action by the nurse is to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nausea is frequently experienced with the initiation of opioid therapy, and antiemetics are usually prescribed to treat this expected side effect. There is no indication that a different opioid is needed, although if the nausea persists, the health care provider may order a change of opioid. Although tolerance develops (in about a week), the nausea will subside; therefore, it would not be appropriate to allow the patient to continue to be nauseated. A clear liquid diet may decrease the nausea, but the best choice would be to administer the metoclopramide and allow the patient to eat.

A Patient Who Has Just Started Taking Sustained-Release Morphine Sulfate