Question

A postoperative client is prescribed acetaminophen (Tylenol) with codeine at discharge. When performing discharge teaching, the nurse:

A. Warns of signs of addiction
B. Recommends that the client decrease the number of tablets taken each day
C. Warns that some clients experience temporary stress incontinence
D. Recommends that the client take milk of magnesia at bedtime

Answer 1

Nurses should warn postoperative patients prescribed acetaminophen with codeine about the signs of addiction, as codeine has abuse potential. Education on the correct dosage and the dangers of liver damage from acetaminophen overuse is also necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing discharge teaching for a postoperative client prescribed acetaminophen with codeine, the nurse should Warn of signs of addiction to codeine. Codeine is an opioid that is often prescribed for mild to moderate pain and comes in combination with acetaminophen. Codeine, like other opioids such as morphine and oxycodone, does have the potential for abuse and addiction; therefore, patients should be instructed on the risks of long-term use, signs of addiction, and when to seek medical advice. Additionally, because acetaminophen (or paracetamol) is involved, the nurse should educate the patient on the recommended dosage range to prevent liver damage, as well as remind them not to exceed the prescribed amount and not to consume alcoholic beverages at the same time. While it is important for clients to adhere to the directed dose and not to self-adjust, the initial answer choice mentioning decreasing the number of tablets taken each day is not correct without specific instruction from a healthcare provider.