A patient has been given high doses of an opioid medication for severe pain.Which assessment data indicate the most toxic effect of a medication?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Respiratory depression is an undesirable and potentially fatal effect of medication that occurs with prolonged therapy,excessive dosing,impaired metabolism,or systemic accumulation in the patient.Respiratory depression can quickly deteriorate into respiratory failure,tissue damage,and death without airway and respiratory support.Nausea and vomiting can be clinical indicators of a toxic effect; however,they lack the same fatal potential as respiratory depression.The reddened skin rash is consistent with a hypersensitivity reaction.Bloating and constipation are most likely adverse effects of medication with a very low risk of fatality.

A Patient Has Been Given High Doses of an Opioid