When caring for a patient who is receiving epidural morphine, which information obtained by the nurse indicates that the patient may be experiencing a side effect of the medication?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Urinary retention is a common side effect of epidural opioids. Headache is not an anticipated side effect of morphine, although if there is a cerebrospinal fluid leak, the patient may develop a "spinal" headache. Sedation (rather than restlessness or agitation) would be a possible side effect. Hypotonic bowel sounds and constipation (rather than abdominal cramping) are concerns.

When Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving Epidural Morphine