Acetaminophen Paracetamol Drug Summ

Score: _________ Grade: ___________

DRUG SUMMARY Name of Drug Generic (Brand)

Date Ordered

Acetaminophen April 29, (Paracetamol) 07

Classification

Dose Frequency Route

antipyretics, nonopioid analgesics

1.2 mL q 4 hr PRN od

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins that may serve as mediators of pain and fever, primarily in the CNS

Specific Indication

Mild pain Fever

Side Effects

Nursing Implications

Hema: hemolytic BEFORE: anemia, ~ Advise parents or neutropenia, caregivers to check leukopenia, concentrations of liquid pancytopenia. preparations. Errors have Hepa: jaundice resulted in serious liver Metabolic: hypoG damage. GI: HEPATIC ~ Assess fever; note FAILURE, presence of associated signs HEPATOTOXICITY (diaphoresis, tachycardia, (overdose). and malaise). GU: renal failure (high doses/chronic DURING: use). ~ Adults should not take Derm: rash, acetaminophen longer than urticaria. 10 days and children not longer than 5 days unless directed by health care professional. ~ Advise mother or caregiver to take medication exactly as directed and not to take more than the recommended amount. AFTER: ~ Advise patient to consult health care professional if discomfort or fever is not relieved by routine doses of this drug or if fever is greater than 39.5°C (103°F) or lasts longer than 3 days.

Reference:

DAVIS DRUG GUIDE FOR NURSES 8th EDITION___