Exam Guide
Opioid Use and the Risk of Constipation
Physiologic Needs · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set
Correct answer: Risk Factor: Opioid use → Potential Complication: Constipation
Why this is the answer
Opioids bind to mu-receptors in the GI tract, slowing peristalsis and increasing fluid absorption from stool, which commonly causes constipation. A bowel regimen is often started prophylactically with opioid therapy.
The bigger concept
Drag-and-drop 'risk factor to complication' items reward knowing the predictable side-effect profile of common drug classes. Opioid-induced constipation does not improve with tolerance the way sedation does, so it needs a proactive plan — fluids, fiber, mobility, and usually a scheduled stool softener or stimulant laxative. The PN/VN monitors bowel patterns and reports a client who has not had a bowel movement in three days or who reports abdominal distention.
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