Opioids
(morphine, -codone, fentanyl)How it works
Activate mu receptors → pain signal dampened. Also suppress the respiratory drive — the therapeutic effect and the lethal one are the same mechanism.
You'll see
Used for
Side effects
Monitor
- Respiratory rate AND sedation level before and after — sedation precedes respiratory depression
- Stack check: benzos, sleep aids, other CNS depressants on the MAR multiply the risk
- Hydromorphone is ~5× morphine potency — dose confusion kills; double-check unusual doses
- Antidote: naloxone — know where it is
- End-of-shift bowel question: when did they last go?
🎓 Patient teaching
No alcohol or sedatives on top. Expect constipation — take the stool softener. Don't drive until you know how it affects you.
Source: Lehne's Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 11th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
