Questions and Answers
Which medications are nonopioid analgesics? (Select all that apply)
Acetaminophen reduces fever by which mechanism of action?
Inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulator center.
Which drugs are derived from the poppy plant? (Select all that apply)
Which administration route of morphine has the fastest onset of action?
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Which problem may be caused by an overdose of acetaminophen?
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Acetaminophen administration should not exceed which dosage for adults?
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What would be the priority assessment for Mrs. Coulter related to acetaminophen?
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What common side effects of oral morphine could Mrs. Coulter experience? (Select all that apply)
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A patient taking acetaminophen should be advised to avoid which substance?
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A patient taking morphine should report which symptoms? (Select all that apply)
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In which condition may rectally administered acetaminophen not be absorbed properly?
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Acetaminophen can be used to treat which problems? (Select all that apply)
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What correctly identifies pharmacologic properties of acetaminophen?
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Because acetaminophen has a short half-life, it can be administered every __ hours as needed for pain relief.
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Opioids primarily activate the mu receptors, causing which effects? (Select all that apply)
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Respiratory depression may be a side effect of activation of which CNS receptors?
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What would be the best action by the nurse for a patient in severe pain but unable to swallow?
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What pharmacokinetic trait is most important to consider with oral morphine administration?
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Which questions should the nurse ask a patient using acetaminophen? (Select all that apply)
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Which intervention by the nurse is most appropriate for a patient in the emergency department asking for acetaminophen?
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Which laboratory test would the nurse most likely suggest for a patient frequently taking morphine after surgery?
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Which interventions should the nurse perform for a patient on a continuous infusion of morphine after surgery? (Select all that apply)
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From the patient's symptoms, what conclusion can the nurse draw about the role of acetaminophen if liver function tests are elevated?
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What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient recovering from surgery wishing to avoid morphine?
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What intervention is appropriate for a parent whose child ingested several acetaminophen tablets?
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Study Notes
Nonopioid Analgesics
- Common nonopioid analgesics include aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.
- Acetaminophen effectively reduces fever by inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulator center.
Opioid Analgesics
- Morphine and codeine are derived from the poppy plant and are classified as opioids.
- The fastest onset of morphine occurs via intravenous administration.
Acetaminophen Risks and Considerations
- Overdosing on acetaminophen can lead to hepatotoxicity, a serious liver condition.
- Maximum recommended dosage for adults is 4 grams per day.
- Patients taking acetaminophen should avoid alcohol to minimize liver strain.
- Assess a patient's history of liver dysfunction before administering acetaminophen.
Side Effects of Morphine
- Common side effects of oral morphine include dizziness, constipation, and respiratory depression.
- Patients taking morphine should report symptoms like dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty breathing.
Administration Routes and Conditions
- In patients unable to take oral medications, consider administering acetaminophen rectally, but be aware absorption may be affected by constipation.
- Acetaminophen is effective for treating fever, headaches, and mild to moderate pain.
Pharmacologic Properties
- Acetaminophen is a nonopioid medication but does not fall under the NSAID category.
- Due to its short half-life, acetaminophen can be administered every 4 hours as needed for pain relief.
Opioid Mechanism of Action
- Opioids mainly activate mu receptors, leading to sedation, euphoria, and analgesia.
- Activation of mu receptors may cause respiratory depression as a side effect.
Patient Care and Monitoring
- For patients in severe pain without swallowing capability, rectal morphine administration is advisable.
- Important pharmacokinetic factor for oral morphine is that it undergoes first hepatic pass metabolism.
- Nurses should inquire about alcohol consumption and liver disease history when assessing patients on acetaminophen.
Emergency and Postoperative Considerations
- Before administering acetaminophen in an emergency setting, confirm if the patient has taken any earlier in the day.
- Patients on frequent morphine should have liver function tests monitored.
- Continuous infusion of morphine requires monitoring of urinary output, respiratory rate, and bowel sounds.
Patient Assessment and Interventions
- Elevated liver tests and a serum acetaminophen level of 10 suggest acetaminophen is likely not contributing to liver issues.
- Encourage nonpharmacologic pain relief options for patients recovering from surgery wishing to avoid opioids.
- In cases of potential acetaminophen overdose in children, immediate emergency department referral is necessary.
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Description
Test your knowledge about analgesics with these flashcards. The quiz covers both nonopioid and opioid analgesics, their mechanisms of action, and routes of administration. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to refresh their understanding of pain management.
