After administering morphine sulfate, which vital sign should the nurse closely monitor?

Monitoring the respiratory rate closely after administering morphine sulfate is critical due to the drug's potential to cause respiratory depression. Morphine, an opioid analgesic, works by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which can significantly inhibit the respiratory center. This effect can lead to a decrease in the rate and depth of breathing, which poses a serious risk, particularly if the dose is higher than what the patient can tolerate.

In patients who are opioid-naive or those who have underlying respiratory issues, even therapeutic doses of morphine can result in respiratory depression. Therefore, observing the respiratory rate allows healthcare providers to identify any alarming changes and intervene promptly, ensuring patient safety.

While blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature are important vital signs that provide insights into a patient’s overall condition, they do not have the same direct and immediate correlation to the administration of morphine as respiratory rate does. Keeping a close watch on respiratory status is crucial to prevent complications that can arise from opioid use.