The nurse administered acetaminophen to the client for an elevated temperature at 1010. After reviewing the electronic medical r
ecord, what potential safety concerns should the nurse be aware of prior to administering other medications to the patient? (the picture is the electronic medical record with all other meds she is on)
The drug doses mentioned in the patient chart are in normal dosage limits. However, Tylenol shall be discontinued.
Explanation:
Acetaminophen is an analgesic and antipyretic drug and its mechanism of action is only limited to central nervous system. Acetaminophen does not produce antiplatelet effects and does not interfere with COX 1 and COX 2 inhibition by NSAIDs i.e. Ibuprofen. Hence it is safe to use Ibuprofen with Acetaminophen or hydrocodone/ acetaminophen. However, both acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Hydrocodone/ acetaminophen cannot be used in combination because the daily acetaminophen dose becomes too high. High dose of acetaminophen may cause serious side effects such as congestion, swelling, sweating, unusual bleeding, and stomach pain. Acetaminophen lowers body temperature and increases the threshold for pain but does not affect inflammation. Hence, NSAIDs are given in combination to reduce inflammation but high doses may lead to bleeding, stroke and other cardiovascular symptoms. It is safe to take albuterol with NSAIDs and acetaminophen, as it reduces congestion and improves breathing.
