If a patient experiences nausea after receiving an opioid, the appropriate nursing action is to...

If a patient experiences nausea after receiving an opioid, the appropriate nursing action is to...

• A. Monitor and manage the nausea as it is a common side effect.
• B. Immediately stop the opioid and withdraw treatment.
• C. Administer a higher dose of opioid to overcome the nausea.
• D. Ignore the symptom.

Answer: (A)

Opioid-induced nausea is a common, expected side effect, so the best approach is to continue the analgesic while actively managing the nausea. Monitor the symptom and use antiemetic therapy as prescribed, plus practical comfort measures such as small, bland meals and adequate fluids, and gentle repositioning to ease discomfort. Stopping the opioid abruptly or giving a higher dose would not relieve the nausea and could create additional safety risks, while ignoring the symptom leaves the patient uncomfortable and at risk for dehydration. If nausea persists, discuss with the clinician about dose adjustments or alternative antiemetic strategies.

Opioid-induced nausea is a common, expected side effect, so the best approach is to continue the analgesic while actively managing the nausea. Monitor the symptom and use antiemetic therapy as prescribed, plus practical comfort measures such as small, bland meals and adequate fluids, and gentle repositioning to ease discomfort. Stopping the opioid abruptly or giving a higher dose would not relieve the nausea and could create additional safety risks, while ignoring the symptom leaves the patient uncomfortable and at risk for dehydration. If nausea persists, discuss with the clinician about dose adjustments or alternative antiemetic strategies.