Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

What effect does morphine have on hemodynamics?

1. Increases preload

2. Decreases anxiety and causes venous vasodilation

3. Increases heart rate

4. Directly increases myocardial oxygen demand

The correct answer is: Decreases anxiety and causes venous vasodilation

Morphine primarily affects hemodynamics by decreasing anxiety and causing venous vasodilation. When administered, morphine acts as an opioid analgesic that not only alleviates pain but also reduces anxiety, which can lead to a decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity. This calming effect is beneficial in a clinical setting, especially during acute pain crises or in emergencies where anxiety might exacerbate the patient's condition. The venous vasodilation induced by morphine results in a decrease in venous return, thereby reducing preload. This can lead to a decrease in myocardial oxygen demand, making morphine particularly useful in managing conditions like acute myocardial infarction or severe pain associated with chest pain. Additionally, the decreased preload can lessen the workload on the heart, which is particularly beneficial in patients with compromised cardiac function. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the effects of morphine on hemodynamics. For instance, morphine does not increase preload, heart rate, or directly increase myocardial oxygen demand; rather, its actions tend to facilitate a more stabilized hemodynamic status by reducing stress and workload on the heart.