A client with metastatic cancer who was taking hydromorphone PO at home is now receiving the medication IV while in the hospital. To evaluate if the client is receiving an equianalgesic dose of the hydromorphone, which assessment should the nurse complete?

Rationale A. Respiratory rate is important because opioid-induced respiratory depression is a significant concern with hydromorphone. Assessing the respiratory rate helps the nurse detect early signs of respiratory depression. B. Pain scale is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the equianalgesic dose. The nurse should ensure that the pain is adequately controlled with the IV dose comparable to what was achieved with the PO dose. C. Blood pressure is monitored to detect any potential hypotensive effects of hydromorphone, particularly with IV administration. D. Level of consciousness is assessed to ensure that the client is not overly sedated or experiencing other neurological side effects of the medication.