Question

the nurse is preparing an education session for a client prescribed opioids for intractable cancer pain. the nurse should include strategies to help prevent which common side effect associated with long - term use of opioids?

a urinary retention.

b constipation.

c respiratory depression.

d sedation.

Explanation:

Long-term opioid use almost universally causes constipation, as tolerance does not typically develop to this side effect, making it the most common persistent adverse effect that requires proactive prevention strategies. The other options are either acute side effects that patients develop tolerance to over time (respiratory depression, sedation) or less common long-term issues (urinary retention).

Answer:

B Constipation.