Final answer:
The client can safely take up to 8 tablets of acetaminophen (325 mg each) in a 24-hour period, not exceeding the 4,000 mg daily limit.
Step-by-step explanation:
The client has been prescribed 650 mg of acetaminophen every 6 hours, as needed, for mild postoperative pain. Since the medication comes in 325 mg tablets, this means the client may take two tablets (2 x 325 mg = 650 mg) per dose. Within a 24-hour period, there are four 6-hour intervals, so the client can take up to 8 tablets (2 tablets per dose x 4 doses) in one day, provided they are taken every 6 hours as prescribed.
It's crucial to remember that taking more acetaminophen than recommended does not increase pain relief and can lead to serious health risks, including liver damage, especially when combined with alcohol intake. The usual maximum limit for adults is 4,000 mg of acetaminophen per day. Therefore, if other medications containing acetaminophen are being taken, it is necessary to account for those doses as well to prevent an accidental overdose.