Acetaminophen

Question 1

Acetaminophen Drug Names

Answer 1

Acetaminophen

Question 2

Acetaminophen Therapeutic Actions

Answer 2

• Acts directly on the thermoregulatory cells of the hypothalamus
• Mechanism of action unknown but related to analgesic effects

Question 3

Acetaminophen Indications

Answer 3

• Used to treat pain and fever

• Treat pain and fever associated with a variety of conditions, including influenza
• Prophylaxis of children receiving diphtheria–pertussis–tetanus (DPT) immunizations
• Relief of musculoskeletal pain associated with arthritis

Question 4

Acetaminophen Contraindication and Cautions

Answer 4

Contraindications:
• Known allergy
• Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation
• Hepatic dysfunction or chronic alcoholism

Question 5

Acetaminophen DDI

Answer 5

DDI:
• Oral anticoagulants increase bleeding
• Hepatotoxicity with barbiturates, carbamazepine, hydantoins, or rifampin

Question 6

Acetaminophen Adverse Effects

Answer 6

• Headache, hemolytic anemia
• Renal dysfunction
• Skin rash and fever
• Hepatotoxicity usually associated with chronic use and overdose

Question 7

Acetaminophen:

Assessment

Answer 7

Assess:
Hx: allergies to any salicylates, NSAIs or tartrazine, pregnancy and lactation, hepatic or renal disease; CV dysfunction, hypertension; GI bleeding or peptic ulcer
Physical: vital signs, skin, temp, orientation and reflexes, perfusion, respirations and adventitious sounds; liver evaluation, BS (baseline)
Labs: kidney, liver function

Question 8

Acetaminophen:

Diagnosis

Answer 8

Dx:

• Acute pain: to CNS, GI effects
• Ineffective breathing pattern is toxic effects occur
• Disturbed sensory perception is toxic effects occur
• Deficient knowledge: drug therapy

Question 9

Acetaminophen:

Implementation

Answer 9

Implementation:
• Administer with food if G.I. upset is severe; provide small, frequent meals
• Check all drugs being taken for possible salicylate ingredients
• Monitor for severe reaction
• Ensure the patient is well hydrated during therapy
• Provide thorough patient teaching

Question 10

Acetaminophen:

Evaluation

Answer 10

Eval:
Response to the drug 
Adverse effects 
Effectiveness of comfort measures Compliance with the regimen
Effectiveness of the teaching plan