Question

select one anti-inflammatory drug classification (salicylates, NSAIDs, Acetaminophen). Develop a teaching plan for a made-up patient using one of the drugs from the group. Discuss nursing considerations for the patient

Answer 1

ACETAMINOPHEN

Teaching Plan

• Know that the drug is used to reduce pain and fever.
• Always read and follow medication label to avoid over dosage as it is a recommended over-the-counter drug.
• Never take more than one acetaminophen-containing product at the same time as it can lead to over dosage.
• Do not take more than recommended dosage.
• Know that Acetaminophen is sometimes labelled as"APAP".
• Know that the common side effects of the drug are

1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Insomnia

• Be aware of the side effects which is to be consulted with the doctor.These are:

urinary retention,Liver problems such as dark urine,lack of appetite,fatigue,jaundice,light coloured stools,toxic epidermal necrolysis such as red eyes,sore throat,mouth or nose,red swollen blistered or peeling skin,fever.

• Consider signs like wheezing,tightness of chest,bluish skin,fever,itching,severe cough,seizures,swelling of face,lips,tongue or throat.
• Consult with the doctor if acetaminophen is taken for more than 10 days.

NURSING CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE PATIENT:

Assessment:

• If given as analgesia,assess onset,type,location and duration of pain before administration.
• obtain patients vital signs before administering the drug.Inform the physician if respirations are 12 per minute or lower.
• obtain history about any active alcoholism,liver disease,viral hepatitis which are contraindicated as these increases the risk of hepatotoxicity.

Precautions:

• Take caution when administering in patients with phenylketonuria,acetaminophen sensitivity,or severe impaired renal function.

Administration:

• It can be administered regardless of meals,if taking per oral.
• if acetaminophen is administered as a rectal suppository,moisten the drug with cold water before inserting.

Intervention:

• Clinical improvement and relief of pain and fever should be assessed.
• monitor serum levels as.>200 mcg/ml indicates toxicity.