Which finding should be identified as a priority in an adolescent receiving morphine via PCA?

In the context of an adolescent receiving morphine via patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), identifying respiratory depression as a priority finding is crucial for patient safety. Morphine, being an opioid analgesic, can significantly depress the respiratory system, which can lead to hypoventilation or even respiratory arrest if not monitored closely.

Respiratory depression is particularly dangerous due to the potential for inadequate oxygenation of vital organs, which can lead to serious complications or even death. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor respiratory rates and oxygen saturation levels regularly in patients receiving opioids.

In contrast, while increased heart rate may indicate pain or anxiety, it is not as immediately life-threatening as respiratory depression. Drowsiness is a common side effect of opioids and does not always indicate a harmful condition unless it progresses to a level where the patient cannot be aroused. Increased pain level is also an important consideration, but it allows for intervention to adjust analgesia rather than posing an immediate threat to life. Therefore, recognizing respiratory depression as the priority finding allows for prompt intervention to ensure the adolescent's safety while managing pain effectively.