Which medications are classified as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: This is a correct choice because switching the patient’s injected pain medication to oral tablets before discharge is an example of an independent nursing intervention. An independent nursing intervention is an action that the nurse can perform based on their own knowledge, skills, and judgment without a physician's order. The nurse can decide when to switch the route of administration of the pain medication based on the patient's condition, preference, and readiness for discharge.

Choice B reason: This is a correct choice because elevating the head of the patient’s bed to facilitate use of the incentive spirometer is an example of an independent nursing intervention. An independent nursing intervention is an action that the nurse can perform based on their own knowledge, skills, and judgment without a physician's order. The nurse can adjust the position of the patient's bed to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis, which are common postoperative complications.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because administering intravenous fluids when the patient is unable to eat or drink is an example of a dependent nursing intervention. A dependent nursing intervention is an action that the nurse can perform only with a physician's order. The nurse cannot give any intravenous fluids to the patient without a prescription.

Choice D reason: This is a correct choice because advancing a patient’s diet from clear liquids to solid foods after surgery is an example of an independent nursing intervention. An independent nursing intervention is an action that the nurse can perform based on their own knowledge, skills, and judgment without a physician's order. The nurse can progress the patient's diet based on the patient's tolerance, appetite, and bowel function.

Choice E reason: This is a correct choice because teaching patients with heart failure how to do accurate daily weights is an example of an independent nursing intervention. An independent nursing intervention is an action that the nurse can perform based on their own knowledge, skills, and judgment without a physician's order. The nurse can educate the patient about the importance of monitoring their weight and fluid status and document the teaching.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Tramadol is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Tramadol is an opioid analgesic medication that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. It can relieve moderate to severe pain, but it does not have any anti-inflammatory effect.

Choice B reason: This is correct. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Aspirin is a salicylate medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. Aspirin can reduce inflammation, pain, and fever, as well as prevent blood clots and protect the heart.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Acetaminophen is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Acetaminophen is a para-aminophenol medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase in the central nervous system, but not in the peripheral tissues. It can reduce pain and fever, but it does not have any anti-inflammatory effect.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen is a propionic acid medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. Ibuprofen can reduce inflammation, pain, and fever, as well as treat arthritis and menstrual cramps.

Choice E reason: This is incorrect. Codeine is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Codeine is an opioid analgesic medication that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. It can relieve mild to moderate pain, but it does not have any anti-inflammatory effect.