acetaminophen is the same as salicylate, except for one aspect which is?
It does not contain an anti-inflammatory action
What is the major drug classification for nonsalicylate analgesic?
acetaminophen
Uses for acetaminophen
Treating mild to moderate pain
Reducing elevated body temperature
Managing pain and discomfort associated with arthritic disorder
Acetaminophen is useful for those who are….
Allergic to aspirin
have bleeding disorders (ulcers or hemophilia)
Those receiving anticoagulant therapy
Those who have had minor surgery
Adverse reactions are..
Skin eruptions Hemolytic anemia Pancyopenia Hypoglycemia Jaundice
How many grams can a patient have of acetaminophen in a 24 hr period?
4 grams
What are the signs of acetaminophen toxicity?
Nausea/vomiting Confusion Liver tenderness Hypotension Cardiac arrhythmia Jaundice Acute renal failure Acute hepatic failure
Contraindications when taking acetaminophen
People should limit there use of alcohol
People should avoid taking acetaminophen concurrently with other salicylates or the NSAIDs
Interactions that acetaminophen may have with other drugs
Barbiturates—> increased possibility to toxicity and decreased effect of acetaminophen
Hydantoins—-> increased possibility of toxicity and decreased effect of acetaminophen
Isoniazid and rifampin—-> increased possibility of toxicity and decreased effect of acetaminophen
Loop diuretic—> decreased effectiveness of diuretic
How often should the patient be reevaluated for pain after drug has been administered?
30 minutes if administered through IV
60 minutes if administered orally
Nursing diagnosis related to acetaminophen are…
> Impaired comfort r/t fever of the disease process
Chronic or acute pain r/t peripheral nerve damage and/or tissue inflammation due to the disease process
Impaired physical mobility r/t muscle and joint stiffness
Risk for poisoning r/t increased salicylate or acetaminophen use
How should acetaminophen be taken?
With a full glass of water and it can be taken on an empty stomach or with food