NCLEX Question for Regarding tolerance and addiction

NCLEX Review Question

Regarding tolerance and addiction, the nurse understands that

a.although patients may need increasing levels of opioids, they are not addicted.
b.tolerance to opioids is uncommon.
c.addiction to opioids commonly develops.
d.the nurse must be primarily concerned about development of addiction by the patient in pain.

Correct Answer: A
although patients may need increasing levels of opioids, they are not addicted.
Rationale: Physical tolerance usually occurs in the absence of addiction.

tolerance to opioids is uncommon.
Rationale: Tolerance to opioids is common.

addiction to opioids commonly develops.
Rationale: Addiction to opioids is rare.

the nurse must be primarily concerned about development of addiction by the patient in pain.
Rationale: Addiction is rare and should never be the primary concern for a patient in pain.

Posted in: MSN NCLEX