What side effect can be anticipated after the administration of naloxone to a presumed narcotic overdose patient?

After administering naloxone to a patient with a presumed narcotic overdose, agitation can be anticipated as a side effect. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it works by reversing the effects of opioids, including respiratory depression and sedation. When naloxone is given, it quickly competes with opioids at the receptor sites and can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in patients who are dependent on opioids.

These withdrawal symptoms often include increased agitation, anxiety, restlessness, and other behavioral changes due to the sudden removal of the narcotic's effects. This heightened state of agitation results from the body's response as it attempts to regain homeostasis after the opioids are displaced from the receptors. This reaction is particularly common in individuals with opioid tolerance or dependence.

In contrast, the other options do not typically arise from naloxone administration. For example, bradycardia and hypotension are not expected side effects of naloxone; in fact, opioids can cause these conditions, and reversing their effects can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Drowsiness is also typically reduced when naloxone is administered, as it counteracts the sedating effects of the opioids.