The nurse assumes care of a patient in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU).The patient had abdominal surgery and is receiving intravenous morphine sulfate for pain.The patient is asleep and has not voided since prior to surgery.The nurse assesses a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute and notes hypoactive bowel sounds.The nurse will contact the surgeon to report which condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute is lower than normal and is a sign of respiratory depression,which is a common adverse effect of opioid analgesics.The other effects may occur with opioids but are also not expected this soon after abdominal surgery.

The Nurse Assumes Care of a Patient in the Post-Anesthesia