A patient who is undergoing withdrawal of mechanical ventilation appears anxious and agitated.The patient is on a continuous morphine infusion and has an additional order for lorazepam ( Ativan )1 to 2 mg IV as needed ( prn ).The patient has received no lorazepam ( Ativan )during this course of illness.What is the most appropriate nursing intervention to control agitation?
A) Administer fentanyl ( Duragesic ) 25 mg IV bolus.
B) Administer lorazepam ( Ativan ) 1 mg IV now.
C) Increase the rate of the morphine infusion by 50%.
D) Request an order for a paralytic agent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lorazepam (Ativan)1 mg IV is an appropriate drug dose for a patient who is experiencing agitation during withdrawal of life support.Because it is ordered but not yet given,the nurse should give this drug now.Fentanyl treats pain and morphine controls pain.Paralytic agents are not warranted.

A Patient Who Is Undergoing Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation Appears