Question

A child who is in a vasoocclusive crisis caused by sickle cell anemia is experiencing acute pain. The nurse understands that Demerol (Meperidine) is not an appropriate pain medication to administer to this child because it:

1.) is very addictive
2.) is not strong enough
3.) may induce seizures
4.) cannot be given by mouth

Answer 1

Demerol (Meperidine) is not recommended for a child in vasoocclusive crisis due to the risk of inducing seizures, with alternates like morphine and oxycodone being safer options for pain management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse understands that Demerol (Meperidine) is not an appropriate pain medication to administer to a child in a vasoocclusive crisis caused by sickle cell anemia because it may induce seizures. As an analgesic and narcotic, there are other medications that might be prescribed for pain management such as morphine, oxycodone, or codeine in combination with another non-opioid pain relief medication for mild to moderate pain. Meperidine's potential to cause seizures is especially concerning in pediatric patients and in those with certain medical conditions.