A nurse is collecting data from a client who is experiencing opioid withdrawal.
Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?.
A.
Bradycardia
B.
Diarrhea.
C.
Hypokinesis.
D.
Meiosis.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
B. Diarrhea
Explanation:
Opioid withdrawal occurs when a person who has been using opioids for a prolonged period either reduces or stops their opioid intake, causing the body to react due to the absence of the drug. Opioids, such as morphine, heroin, oxycodone, and fentanyl, depress the central nervous system, and withdrawal symptoms reflect the body’s rebound response to the absence of these drugs. These symptoms typically begin within hours to days after the last dose, depending on the opioid used and its half-life.
Key manifestations of opioid withdrawal include both physical and psychological symptoms. Physically, gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common because opioids usually slow down gastrointestinal motility. When the opioid is removed, the gut experiences hyperactivity, leading to increased peristalsis and diarrhea. This is one of the hallmark signs of opioid withdrawal.
Other manifestations of opioid withdrawal include:
- Tachycardia: Increased heart rate, opposite to bradycardia (which would occur with opioid use, not withdrawal).
- Dilated pupils (Mydriasis): Pupils become larger due to the sympathetic nervous system activation, which contrasts with the meiosis (pupil constriction) that occurs during opioid use.
- Hyperkinesis: Excessive movement and restlessness are typical during withdrawal, unlike hypokinesis, which involves slowed movement.
- Goosebumps (Piloerection): The body experiences chills and cold sweats, leading to goosebumps.
- Increased blood pressure: Blood pressure often rises as part of the sympathetic nervous system’s response to opioid withdrawal.
- Anxiety and agitation: Psychological symptoms include increased irritability, mood swings, and anxiety.
In contrast, bradycardia (slow heart rate), meiosis (constricted pupils), and hypokinesis (slowed movement) are signs seen during opioid intoxication, not withdrawal.
Understanding these symptoms is essential for effective nursing interventions, which focus on symptom management and preventing complications during the withdrawal process.