Undiluted morphine IV push should be given slowly over how many minutes?

• A. 2-3
• B. 4-5
• C. 6-8
• D. 8-10

Answer: (B)

The important idea here is administering IV opioids at a controlled, moderate rate to balance safety and relief. Undiluted morphine given by IV push should be given over four to five minutes. This slower rate allows the drug to enter the bloodstream gradually, producing a smoother peak in plasma concentration and a steadier onset of analgesia while reducing the risk of abrupt adverse effects like hypotension and respiratory depression.

If given too quickly, the sudden high level of morphine can cause dangerous bradypnea or apnea and drop in blood pressure. Spreading the dose over about five minutes provides time to monitor the patient’s breathing, oxygenation, and level of sedation, and to intervene if needed. Once the patient is stable, you can reassess pain and continue with appropriate dosing.