Question 32

Morphine can decrease respiratory rate and workload of the heart

In the treatment of patients with end-stage COPD, morphine is known to provide symptomatic relief by decreasing respiratory rate and reducing the workload of the heart, which can be beneficial in managing distressing symptoms.

A) Morphine often hastens death in a patient with end-stage pulmonary disease

This option is incorrect as it implies that morphine universally hastens death, which is not necessarily true. While there are concerns about the effects of morphine on patients with severe respiratory conditions, its appropriate use can significantly improve comfort and quality of life rather than directly hastening death.

B) Morphine often adversely affects respiratory drive and decreases carbon dioxide levels

This statement is misleading. While morphine can affect respiratory drive, it does not typically decrease carbon dioxide levels; instead, it may lead to respiratory depression, which can elevate carbon dioxide levels. Thus, this option does not accurately reflect the implications of morphine use in this patient population.

C) Morphine can decrease respiratory rate and workload of the heart

This option is correct as morphine can effectively reduce respiratory rate and the workload on the heart, providing symptomatic relief for patients suffering from severe respiratory distress and improving their overall comfort.

D) The use of bronchodilators and steroids precludes the need for morphine

This statement is incorrect. The use of bronchodilators and steroids does not eliminate the need for morphine in managing symptoms of end-stage COPD. Morphine serves a different purpose in providing comfort and alleviating distress, which can be necessary even when other treatments are in place.

Conclusion

Morphine is valuable in the management of symptoms in patients with end-stage COPD, particularly by decreasing respiratory rate and the workload of the heart, leading to improved patient comfort. Options A, B, and D fail to recognize the appropriate contexts and benefits of morphine use, while only option C accurately captures its therapeutic role.