Mangaing And Controling Pain Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are analgesics?
A group of drugs used to relieve pain that all work the same way and have the same effect.
These are commonly known as painkillers.
What is the primary function of Acetaminophen (paracetamol)?
To reduce the intensity of pain signals to the brain and reduce fever.
It can reduce or stop the number of prostaglandins that the body releases.
What are NSAIDs and give an example?
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; examples include ibuprofen and aspirin.
They work better for inflammatory pain.
How do NSAIDs work?
By blocking the body’s chemicals associated with inflammation and pain.
What are opiates?
A strong form of painkiller that controls acute pain.
They are highly addictive and have risks and side effects.
How do opiates function in the body?
They attach to proteins known as opioid receptors in nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain messages.
What are anesthetics?
Drugs that cause total or partial loss of sensation and can be local or general.
They are used to put a patient unconscious during procedures.
Fill in the blank: Acetaminophen is thought to reduce the intensity of pain signals to the brain and reduce _______.
Fever
True or False: Opiates are non-addictive painkillers.
False
What type of pain do NSAIDs work better for?
Inflammatory pain.
What are antidepressants used for?
Chronic pain like Migraines and low back pain
Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed for pain relief, although their primary use is for mental health conditions.
Is the painkilling mechanism of antidepressants fully understood?
No
The exact mechanism by which antidepressants alleviate pain is not completely understood.
How may antidepressants reduce pain signals?
By increasing neurotransmitters within the spinal cord
This increase may help modulate pain perception.
Is pain relief from antidepressants total?
No
Pain relief may be partial and varies among individuals.
What are some side effects of antidepressants?
Addiction, extensive side effects, no training or effort needed
Side effects can vary widely depending on the specific antidepressant and individual response.
What approach is described as nomothetic?
An approach that ignores environmental factors
This approach focuses on general laws and principles rather than individual circumstances.
What is a potential criticism of the nomothetic approach?
It ignores the environment
Critics argue that this approach fails to consider the context in which individuals operate.
What is a concern regarding long-term use of antidepressants?
Potential for addiction and extensive side effects
Long-term use may lead to dependency and other health issues.
