Pharmacological and Parenteral TherapiesQuestion 2311 of 2368

A nurse prepares to give naloxone to a client who is physically dependent on opioids and has respiratory depression. Which response should the nurse anticipate?

  1. Worsening of the respiratory depression within minutes
  2. A prolonged period of deep sedation after the dose
  3. Complete loss of the client's tolerance to all medications
  4. Immediate, severe withdrawal such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors
Show answer

Correct answer: Immediate, severe withdrawal such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors

In a client who is physically dependent, naloxone causes immediate and severe withdrawal symptoms.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Comfort: RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026