A nurse is caring for a patient with pulmonary fibrosis who is exhibiting shortness of...

Morphine is often used to relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath and anxiety in patients with pulmonary fibrosis. It works by reducing the sensation of dyspnea and the sense of impending doom by decreasing the respiratory drive and alleviating anxiety through its sedative effects. Additionally, morphine can help reduce tachypnea by slowing down the respiratory rate. References: = CCRN Exam Handbook, AACN Adult CCRN Certification Review Course