Medication: Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Pharmacologic Class: Nonsalicylate, para-aminophenol derivative
Therapeutic Class: Antipyretic, nonopioid analgesic
Expected Pharmacological Action
Therapeutic Use
Inhibits enzyme cyclooxygenase, blocking prostaglandin
production and interfering with pain pulse generation in
peripheral nervous system. Also acts directly on
temperature-regulating center in hypothalamus by
inhibiting synthesis of prostaglandin E2
Pain relief and fever reducer
Complications
Acute Toxicity: results in liver damage with early
manifestations of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, and
abdominal discomfort progressing to hepatic failure, coma,
death; hypertension in women
Medication Administration
PR, PO, IV
Adverse Reactions
Liver damage
Hypertension
Contraindications/Precautions
Acute Toxicity: results in liver damage with early
manifestations of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, and
abdominal discomfort progressing to hepatic failure, coma,
death; hypertension in women
Nursing Interventions
Interactions
anticholinergics warfarin: slows metabolism of warfain
Alcohol use: increase hepatotoxicity barbituates,
carbamazepine, hydantoins, isoniazied, rifampin,
sylfinzpyrazone, dasatinib, imatinib, lamotrigine, oral
contraceptives, probenecid, propranolol, zadovudine
Use cautiously in pt with hepatic impairment,
alcoholism, hypovolemia, renal impairment
Monitor AST, ALT, bilirubin, creatine levels
Monitor renal function, decreased urine output,
Client Teaching
Evaluation Of Medication Effectiveness
Reduced fever
Reduced pain
Observe for indications of bleeding
Contact provider if pain persists for >5 days
Don't take more than the recommended dosage