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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
Ibuprofen does not work by increasing blood flow to the affected area.
Its primary mechanism of action is the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which helps reduce pain, inflammation, and fever.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is also inaccurate.
Ibuprofen does not work by blocking the action of a specific enzyme in the body.
Its primary mode of action is related to prostaglandin inhibition.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is not accurate.
Ibuprofen's primary mechanism of action is not reducing the production of substances that cause inflammation and pain.
It primarily targets prostaglandins.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement, "Let's play your favorite video game together," is the most appropriate for the nurse to say to the child when using distraction techniques to manage pain.
Engaging the child in an enjoyable activity like playing a video game can divert their attention from the pain and anxiety associated with the medical procedure, making it a more positive experience.
Choice B rationale:
The statement, "I am going to give you a medication now," is not an appropriate distraction technique.
While medication may be necessary for pain management, it does not serve as a distraction from the procedure itself.
Choice C rationale:
The statement, "You need to stay still and quiet," is not an effective use of distraction techniques.
It may increase the child's anxiety and discomfort during the procedure, as it does not provide a positive distraction.
Choice D rationale:
The statement, "Why don’t you try to sleep?" is not an ideal distraction technique either.
Asking the child to sleep during a medical procedure may not be feasible, and it doesn't actively engage the child in a positive and distracting activity.
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