What assessment should be conducted prior to administering opioids or Ketamine?

The mental status exam using the AVPU method (Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive) is crucial prior to administering opioids or ketamine because these medications can significantly affect a patient’s level of consciousness and respiratory drive. Evaluating the patient’s mental status provides insight into their responsiveness and potential risks associated with sedation.

Opioids, for example, can cause respiratory depression, which could exacerbate a patient's condition if they are already compromised. Similarly, ketamine may alter the level of consciousness and could lead to confusion or altered perceptions. By assessing mental status first, a medic can determine if the patient is stable enough to receive these medications safely and can make more informed decisions about pain management without risking the patient's safety.

Conducting a pain level assessment is also relevant in the context of administering these medications; however, understanding the mental state (especially in terms of responsiveness) provides critical safety information about the patient’s ability to tolerate potential side effects.