A nurse is providing education to the parents of a child who will be receiving acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief.
Which statement by the nurse accurately describes the mechanism of action of acetaminophen?
"Acetaminophen works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, which helps reduce pain and fever.”..
"Acetaminophen works by blocking the release of histamine, which helps reduce pain and fever.”..
"Acetaminophen works by increasing the production of endorphins, which helps reduce pain and fever.”..
"Acetaminophen works by stimulating the central nervous system, which helps reduce pain and fever.”..
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, which helps reduce pain and fever.
Prostaglandins are chemicals produced by the body in response to injury or illness and are known to promote inflammation, pain, and fever.
By inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, acetaminophen reduces these symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
This option is not correct.
Acetaminophen does not work by blocking the release of histamine.
Histamine is a chemical that plays a role in allergic reactions and inflammation, but it is not the primary target of acetaminophen.
Choice C rationale:
This option is not correct.
Acetaminophen does not increase the production of endorphins.
Endorphins are natural painkillers produced by the body, but acetaminophen's mechanism of action is related to prostaglandin inhibition.
Choice D rationale:
This option is not correct.
Acetaminophen does not stimulate the central nervous system.
Its primary action is the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in peripheral tissues.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
It is important to monitor your child's pain level closely and adjust their medication as needed.”..
Choice A rationale:
It is essential to give the recommended dose of medication, but it's not necessary to administer it when the child is not in pain.
Overmedicating can lead to adverse effects, and administering medication unnecessarily is not a recommended practice.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding non-pharmacological interventions is not advisable.
Non-pharmacological interventions, such as distraction, relaxation techniques, and physical therapy, can be effective in managing pain and should be considered as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the child's pain level closely and adjusting medication as needed is crucial for effective pain management.
Pain is subjective, and it can change over time.
Adapting the treatment plan based on the child's pain level ensures that they receive the appropriate level of care.
Choice D rationale:
Giving medication only when the child is in severe pain is not a suitable approach to pain management.
Pain should be addressed at an appropriate level of intensity, which may vary from mild to severe.
Waiting until the pain is severe before administering medication can lead to unnecessary suffering.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The child's age.
Choice A rationale:
Age is an essential factor to consider when assessing a child's pain level.
Children of different age groups may perceive and express pain differently.
Infants, for example, may not be able to verbalize their pain, while older children can communicate more effectively.
Understanding the child's age allows healthcare providers to adapt their pain assessment techniques accordingly.
Choice B rationale:
The child's developmental level is an important factor to consider when assessing pain.
Developmental factors can impact a child's ability to communicate their pain and their understanding of pain management.
However, the question asks for a factor that would NOT be considered, and developmental level is typically considered when assessing a child's pain.
Choice C rationale:
The child's cultural background is a crucial consideration in pain assessment.
Cultural beliefs and practices can influence how pain is perceived and expressed.
It's important to be culturally sensitive and take into account the child's cultural background when assessing pain.
However, this choice is about factors that would NOT be considered, so cultural background is indeed considered in pain assessment.
Choice D rationale:
The child's reported pain level is a critical factor to consider when assessing pain.
It is a direct and reliable source of information about the child's pain experience.
Dismissing the child's self-reported pain level would be inappropriate and contrary to best practices in pain assessment.
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