Author Question: Which drug is usually the best choice for patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for a child in the ... (Read 71 times)

Chelseaamend · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

Which drug is usually the best choice for patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for a child in the immediate postoperative period?

a. Codeine
b. Morphine
c. Methadone
d. Meperidine

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a child receiving intravenous (IV) morphine for severe postoperative pain. The nurse observes a slower respiratory rate, and the child cannot be aroused. The most appropriate management of this child is for the nurse to:

a. administer naloxone (Narcan).
b. discontinue IV infusion.
c. discontinue morphine until child is fully awake.
d. stimulate child by calling name, shaking gently, and asking to breathe deeply.

rosiehomeworddo · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The most commonly prescribed medications for PCA are morphine, hydromorphone, and fentanyl. Parenteral use of codeine is not recommended. Methadone is not available in parenteral form in the United States. Meperidine is not used for continuous and extended pain relief.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The management of opioid-induced respiratory depression includes lowering the rate of infusion and stimulating the child. If the respiratory rate is depressed and the child cannot be aroused, then IV naloxone should be administered. The child will be in pain because of the reversal of the morphine. The morphine should be discontinued, but naloxone is indicated if the child is unresponsive. The child is unresponsive, therefore naloxone is indicated.