Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is taking codeine. which of the following assessments should the nurse identify as the priority? blood pressure apical heart rate respiratory rate level of consciousness

Explanation:

Codeine is an opioid analgesic, and the most life-threatening adverse effect of opioids is respiratory depression. Priority nursing assessments focus on the most critical, life-sustaining functions, making respiratory rate the top priority.

Answer:

Respiratory rate