Page 2080 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

g. Monitor for pupil changes because
pinpoint pupils can indicate morphine
overdose.

h. Avoid alcohol or CNS

depressants because they can cause
respiratory depression.
i. Instruct the client to report dizziness or
difficulty breathing.
j. If taking sustained-release morphine,
the client may need short-acting opioid
doses for breakthrough pain.
k. To administer morphine intravenously,
dilute in at least 5 mL of sterile water
(per agency procedure) for injection
and administer slowly over 4 to 5
minutes.
l. Explain to the client and family about
administration and the side and
adverse effects of the medication.
E. Meperidine
1. Side and adverse effects

a. Respiratory depression

b. Hypotension and dizziness
c. Tachycardia
d. Drowsiness and confusion
e. Constipation
f. Urinary retention
g. Nausea and vomiting
h. Seizures
i. Tremors

2. Interventions

a. Monitor vital signs.

b. Monitor for respiratory

depression and hypotension.
c. Have naloxone available for overdose.
d. Monitor for urinary retention.
e. Monitor bowel sounds and for
constipation.
f. To administer meperidine
intravenously, dilute in at least 5 mL of
sterile water or normal saline (per
agency procedure) for injection and
administer the dose over 4 to 5

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