Question

The nurse administers 250 mg of acetaminophen along with 5 mg of hydrocodone to a patient in pain. Why is acetaminophen part of this protocol?

1. To reduce the risk of hepatotoxicity
2. To prevent the risk of oversedation
3. To prevent the occurrence of respiratory depression
4. To decrease the dose of opioid required for pain control

Answer 1

Acetaminophen is included in the protocol to reduce the risk of liver damage, decrease the required opioid dose, and prevent oversedation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Acetaminophen is part of this protocol for multiple reasons:

1. To reduce the risk of hepatotoxicity: Acetaminophen, when administered alone or in combination with other medications, helps to minimize the potential liver damage caused by the opioid component (hydrocodone).
2. To decrease the dose of opioid required for pain control: Acetaminophen has been shown to enhance the analgesic effects of opioids, allowing for lower doses of opioids to be used while still providing effective pain relief.
3. To prevent the risk of oversedation: The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone can synergistically reduce the sedative effects of hydrocodone, minimizing the risk of excessive drowsiness.