Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

Which assessment finding would most strongly suggest an issue with morphine?

1. Increased respiratory rate

2. Myoclonus

3. Elevated blood pressure

4. Reduced heart rate

The correct answer is: Myoclonus

Myoclonus is a significant assessment finding that can strongly suggest an issue related to morphine use. Myoclonus refers to sudden, involuntary muscle jerks, which can occur as a side effect of opioid medications like morphine. This phenomenon can be related to the way morphine affects the central nervous system, and it may indicate either an adverse reaction or the development of tolerance over time. In the context of palliative care, where morphine is often used for pain management, the presence of myoclonus suggests that the dosage may need to be reassessed or adjusted, as this side effect can cause discomfort and distress for the patient. While increased respiratory rate, elevated blood pressure, and reduced heart rate can occur in various clinical situations and may suggest other concerns, myoclonus is more specifically linked to the neural effects of opioids and raises immediate questions regarding the appropriateness of continued morphine use in that patient. Understanding these potential side effects is crucial for effective pain management and ensuring patient comfort in hospice and palliative care settings.