With a prescription of meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) for pain, which side effect should the nurse monitor for?

Meperidine hydrochloride, commonly known as Demerol, is an opioid analgesic used for pain relief. One of the known side effects of opioids, including meperidine, is urinary retention. This occurs because opioids can influence the central nervous system and inhibit the normal sensations and impulses that trigger urination, leading to difficulty in voiding or incomplete emptying of the bladder.

In clinical practice, it is essential for nurses to monitor patients for urinary retention, especially when they are on opioid therapy. Signs of urinary retention can include abdominal discomfort, distension, and difficulty initiating urination. Recognizing this side effect is crucial to preventing complications such as urinary tract infections or significant discomfort for the patient.

While other side effects associated with opioids may include gastrointestinal upset, like constipation rather than diarrhea; bradycardia is a possible but less common cardiovascular effect; and hypertension is not typically associated with opioids either. These factors contribute to the importance of monitoring urinary retention specifically with meperidine use.