Answer:
Option 2, respiration
Explanation:
Most, if not all, opioid medications have a mechanism of action that involves depressing the patient's central nervous system (CNS). This means following administration, the medication will cause aspects of the patient's CNS and all of the structures it controls to essentially slow down. The CNS controls respiratory function, specifically both the diaphragm and the lungs, allowing for breathing to occur involuntarily.
Normal resting respiratory rate (RR) is expected to be within 12-20 breaths per minute, unless otherwise indicated by the patient's baseline values (their individualized normal amounts). Respiratory rates of less than 10 breaths are considered slower than normal, a term known as bradypnea. This can translate to insufficient amounts of oxygen being delivered to the vital tissues. When respiratory rates plummet to 0 breaths per minute, a term called apnea, this insufficiency can become extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
If the healthcare provider is not careful, the administration of opioids can cause bradypnea or, worse, apnea, which can lead to brain damage due to insufficient oxygen supply and or death. If the patient is already bradypneic or apneic, they should likely not receive the medication because an opioid would worsen either event.
Thus, the priority nursing action before administering an opioid to a patient is to assess their respiration status, option 2.
