DRUG STUDY

Generic Name: paracetamol

Brand Name: Tempra

Classification: Non-narcotic analgesics and antipyretics

Route, Dosage, & Frequency: PO 500 mg; q4h-q6h

Mechanism of Action: This drug appears to inhibit

prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS and, to a lesser extent, block

pain impulses through peripheral action. Acts centrally on hypothalamic heat-regulating

center, producing peripheral vasodilation (heat loss, skin erythema, diaphoresis).

Therapeutic Effect: Results in antipyresis. Produces analgesic effect. Therapeutic

Effect: Increases gastric pH, reduces gastric acid production.

Indications: This drug is given to patients for temporary relief of mild to moderate pain,

headache, fever.

Contraindications: This drug is contraindicated for patients who are hypersensitive to

acetaminophen.

Side Effects:

Rare: hypersensitivity reaction

Adverse Reactions:

Hematologic: haemolytic anemia, neutropenia, leukopenia, pancytopenia

Hepatic: liver damage, jaundice

Metabolic: hypoglycemia

Skin: rash, urticaria

10 Nursing Responsibilities:

1. If there is fever, assess patient’s fever or pain: type of pain, location, intensity,

duration, temperature, and diaphoresis.

2. Make sure that the drug will be administered within 30 minutes of the scheduled

time and check the drug label at the time of contact with it, before preparing it,

and after preparing it (3 checks before drug administration).

3. Inform the patient and the family about the drug that is about to be taken and

also the side and adverse effects of it.

4. Document the process as well as the time and the date that the medication was

administered.

5. When rashes occur, tell the patient to avoid rubbing or scratching the skin and

advise him to take a bath using lukewarm water. Then, apply a topical lubricant

immediately after taking a bath.

6. Avoid giving patient aspirin or aspirin-like analgesics because it inhibits platelet

aggregation.

7. Evaluate the therapeutic effects of the drug.

8. Educate the patient or the patient’s family to space the doses evenly and to

continue the medication as ordered by the physician.

9. Teach the patient and the patient’s family client warning signs that needs

immediate attention of the physician.

10. Tell the family to consult the physician for use in children with fever lasting longer

than 3 days.