A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving morphine intravenously. Which of the following findings indicates the client is experiencing morphine toxicity?

Rationale: A. Prolonged QT interval: Morphine does not typically cause a prolonged QT interval. QT prolongation is more commonly associated with certain antiarrhythmic or psychotropic medications, not opioid toxicity. B. Fluid retention: Morphine is not known to cause fluid retention. Signs of toxicity are primarily related to central nervous system and respiratory depression rather than cardiovascular fluid balance. C. Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes: Morphine toxicity usually depresses neurological function, leading to decreased reflexes rather than hyperactivity. Hyperactive reflexes are not characteristic of opioid overdose. D. Bradypnea: Respiratory depression, manifested as bradypnea, is a hallmark sign of morphine toxicity. Excessive morphine depresses the brainstem respiratory centers, reducing the rate and depth of respirations, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.