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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Opioids are not typically indicated for mild pain.
Opioids are potent analgesics and are reserved for more severe pain due to their potential for side effects and the risk of addiction.
Using opioids for mild pain is usually not recommended.
Choice B rationale:
Opioids are not indicated for mild pain and fever.
While they can help with pain, they do not have a direct effect on fever.
Opioids are primarily used for pain management, especially when other medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not effective.
Choice D rationale:
Opioids are not specifically indicated for severe pain and inflammation.
They are primarily used for pain relief, and their efficacy in reducing inflammation is limited compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
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.
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