Identify the correct statement regarding opioid receptors. 1. ...

[olgavictoria]

Identify the correct statement regarding opioid receptors.
 
  1. The sigma and kappa receptors are of greatest concern from a pharmacologic standpoint.
  2. Drugs that block opioid receptors inhibit the pain impulse.
  3. Opioid agonists will activate mu and kappa receptors, producing analgesia.
  4. Opioids exert their actions by interacting with a total of four receptors.

Question 2

A patient on a morphine patient-controlled analgesic (PCA) IV pump has a respiratory rate of 8, and is difficult to arouse. Which of the following would be the priority intervention?
 
  1. Administering activated charcoal
  2. Lowering the dose of morphine
  3. Administering a medication that blocks mu and kappa receptors
  4. Intubation and mechanical ventilation

[zhanghao]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: Opioid agonists stimulate mu and kappa receptors, resulting in a variety of effects, including analgesia. There are at least six types of receptors. The mu and kappa receptors are of greatest concern from a pharmacologic standpoint. Drugs that block opioid receptors are called opioid antagonists, and do not inhibit the pain impulse.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: Administering the opioid antagonist naloxone (Narcan) is indicated in the given situation. Lowering the dose is not aggressive enough, and intubation is too aggressive. Activated charcoal is not indicated for an overdose that has occurred via the IV route.

[olgavictoria]

Excellent

[aliotak]

TYSM