A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving morphine for pain. Which of the following findings indicates that the client is experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?
A.
Tachycardia
B.
Lacrimation
C.
Hypertension
D.
Urinary retention
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Urinary retention.
Explanation:
Morphine is a potent opioid analgesic commonly used for pain relief. While it is effective in managing pain, it also has a variety of adverse effects due to its action on opioid receptors in various systems of the body. Morphine primarily works by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), producing analgesia, sedation, and euphoria. However, these same receptors, when activated, can lead to several undesirable side effects.
One of the common adverse effects of morphine is urinary retention. Morphine can decrease the tone of the detrusor muscle in the bladder and increase the tone of the urinary sphincter. This combination makes it difficult for the bladder to contract and for urine to flow freely, leading to urinary retention. This effect is particularly concerning in older adults or those with pre-existing urinary issues.
Other Options:
- A. Tachycardia: While morphine may cause bradycardia (a slow heart rate), tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is not typically associated with morphine as a direct adverse effect. Instead, tachycardia might occur if a patient is experiencing pain, anxiety, or other conditions not related to the morphine itself.
- B. Lacrimation: Excessive tearing or lacrimation is more commonly seen during opioid withdrawal rather than as an adverse effect of opioid administration. When a client is actively using morphine, they may experience dry eyes or decreased secretions rather than increased tearing.
- C. Hypertension: Morphine more commonly causes hypotension (low blood pressure) due to vasodilation and reduced sympathetic nervous system activity. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not typically associated with morphine use.
In conclusion, urinary retention is a known adverse effect of morphine. It can lead to discomfort, bladder distension, and complications if not addressed, and should be monitored closely in clients receiving opioid therapy.