In what situations is caution required when administering Morphine?

Caution is required when administering morphine, particularly in individuals with pre-existing asthma or impaired ventilation. Morphine is an opioid analgesic that can cause respiratory depression, which may exacerbate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. In patients with impaired ventilation, morphine can further compromise their ability to breathe, leading to serious and life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure. It is crucial to assess respiratory function and the patient’s asthma control prior to administering morphine to ensure their safety, as well as to monitor them closely for any signs of respiratory distress after administration.

While there may be concerns in other scenarios, such as administering morphine during postpartum recovery or in individuals with suppressed immunity, the immediate risk associated with respiratory depression makes the situation involving asthma or impaired ventilation particularly critical.