Which persistent side effect of opioids should a nurse prepare a client with cancer for during long-term use?

The most persistent side effect of opioids that a nurse must prepare a client with cancer for during long-term use is constipation. Opioids bind to specific receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to decreased motility and increased absorption of fluids, which results in harder stools and difficulty passing them. This effect can be long-lasting and often does not diminish over time, making it essential for healthcare providers to proactively manage this issue in patients receiving chronic opioid therapy.

In the context of patients with cancer, effective management of pain is critical, and opioids are commonly used. However, nursing interventions must include education and strategies to mitigate constipation, such as encouraging fluid intake, dietary adjustments, and possibly the use of laxatives or stool softeners as needed. This approach can help improve the patient's quality of life and ensure that pain management does not lead to further complications.

Other side effects, such as sedation, urinary retention, and respiratory depression, can occur with opioid use, but they are often more variable, may diminish over time with tolerance, or are closely monitored in a clinical setting. Constipation tends to be a more constant and troublesome issue, necessitating ongoing attention and intervention.