Opioid Dosage for Severe Pain Management

A nurse is preparing to administer a medication for a patient who reports severe pain due to cancer. The physician has prescribed morphine sulfate 10 mg IV every 4 hours as needed for severe pain. The nurse understands that morphine is classified as a strong opioid analgesic. Before administering the medication, the nurse must assess the patient's current pain level, vital signs, and potential side effects of opioid therapy. According to guidelines, the nurse knows the appropriate range for initial dosing of oral morphine is typically between ____ mg to ____ mg for severe pain management.