Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

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When treating a patient with severe respiratory depression due to opioid overdose, which medication is most commonly indicated?

Flumazenil
Naloxone
Betamethasone
Atropine

The correct answer is: Naloxone

In cases of severe respiratory depression resulting from an opioid overdose, the most commonly indicated medication is Naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids do, effectively reversing their effects. This action is crucial as it quickly restores normal respiratory function and consciousness in patients experiencing opioid toxicity. Its rapid onset of action makes it an essential drug in emergency settings, allowing healthcare providers to promptly address the life-threatening effects of opioid overdose. The other medications mentioned have different indications. Flumazenil is primarily used to reverse benzodiazepine effects and is not recommended for opioid overdose due to the risk of seizures and complications. Betamethasone is a corticosteroid and is not used in the context of opioid overdose. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication used primarily to treat bradycardia and is not effective for reversing respiratory depression from opioids. Thus, Naloxone stands out as the critical and appropriate agent in this scenario.