Saunders - Pain Medication Questions w/ Rationale
A client has been prescribed codeine sulfate. The nurse has given the client instructions for its use. The nurse concludes that the client understands the instructions if the client verbalizes to self-assess for which side effect? 1.Excitability 2.Rapid pulse 3.Constipation 4.Excessive urination
Answer: 3. Constipation Rationale: The client is taught about side and adverse effects that could occur with the use of codeine sulfate. The most common side effects include drowsiness, confusion, hypotension, nausea and vomiting, and constipation. Adverse effects include bradycardia, respiratory depression, and urinary retention.
The nurse is giving medication instructions to a client who has been prescribed acetylsalicylic acid. Which client statement indicates that education was effective? 1."I may develop heartburn." 2."I should monitor for muscle aches." 3."I may experience burning on urination." 4."I should take measures to prevent constipation."
Answer: 1. "I may develop heartburn." Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal agent that is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. Occasional side/adverse effects include gastrointestinal distress such as cramping, mild nausea, heartburn, and abdominal distention. The client also should self-monitor for evidence of allergic reaction such as pruritus, urticaria, and difficulty breathing. Acetylsalicylic acid may be used to treat muscle aches. Constipation and burning on urination are not side effects of this medication.
The nurse has given instructions for taking codeine sulfate to a client with a severe headache. Which statement by the client indicates the teaching has been effective? 1."I should increase fluid intake." 2."I should maintain a low-fiber diet." 3."I should avoid all exercise to prevent lightheadedness." 4."I should avoid the use of stool softeners to prevent diarrhea."
Answer: 1. "I should increase fluid intake." Rationale: Codeine sulfate can cause constipation, so the client is instructed to increase fluid intake to prevent this occurrence. A high-fiber diet and stool softeners may be prescribed to prevent constipation. All exercise is not avoided.
A client with muscle aches and a diagnosis of rheumatism has been given a prescription for capsaicin topical cream. The nurse determines that the client understands the use of the medication if the client makes which statement? 1."The medication will act as a local analgesic." 2."The medication acts by decreasing muscle spasms." 3."The medication will cause redness, flaking, and the skin to peel." 4."A heating pad should be put on the area after applying the medication."
Answer: 1. "the medication will act as a local analgesic." Rationale: Capsaicin is used for the temporary relief of muscular aches, rheumatism, arthritis, sprains, and neuralgia. It is one of a group of products known as rubs or liniments, which contain combinations of antiseptics, local anesthetics, analgesics, and counterirritants. The skin should not become red, flaky, or peel; if this occurs, the primary health care provider should be notified. The medication does not act systemically. A heating pad should not be applied because it could cause skin irritation or burning.
A clinic nurse is performing an assessment on a client with rheumatoid arthritis who has been taking acetylsalicylic acid for the disorder. The nurse assesses the client for signs of aspirin toxicity. Which finding should alert the nurse to the possibility of toxicity? 1.Fever and signs of hyperventilation 2.Constipation and abdominal bloating 3.Client complaint of visual disturbances 4.Abdominal discomfort and client complaint of diarrhea
Answer: 1. Fever and signs of hyperventilation. Rationale: Mild intoxication with acetylsalicylic acid is called salicylism and can be experienced by the client when the daily dosage of acetylsalicylic acid is more than 4 g. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is the most frequent effect noted with intoxication. Hyperventilation may occur because salicylates stimulate the respiratory center. Fever may result because salicylates interfere with the metabolic pathways coupling oxygen consumption and heat reduction. The remaining options are not signs of acetylsalicylic acid intoxication.
The nurse is caring for a client who underwent an open reduction internal fixation to the right hip. When administering opioid analgesics for pain, the nurse should instruct the client that which are side and adverse effects of opioid analgesics? (Select all that apply) 1.Sedation 2.Diarrhea 3.Constipation 4.Increased pain level 5.Respiratory depression
Answer: 1. Sedation 3. Constipation 5. Respiratory depression Rationale: Side and adverse effects of opioids include constipation, sedation, and respiratory depression. Diarrhea is not a side effect. The pain level should decrease, not increase.
The primary health care provider has prescribed a lidocaine 5% patch for a client with a diagnosis of neck pain due to osteoarthritis. Which should the nurse tell the client regarding this medication? 1.The medication patch will act as a local anesthetic. 2.The medication patch acts by decreasing muscle spasms. 3.The medication is prescribed to cause the skin to peel below the patch. 4.Apply a heating pad to the area after applying the medication patch to increase the effectiveness.
Answer: 1. The medication patch will act as a local anesthetic. Rationale: A lidocaine patch provides a local anesthetic effect to the site of application. The medication does not act in a systemic manner. It is not prescribed to cause the skin to peel, so if this reaction occurs, the primary health care provider should be notified. A heating pad should not be applied because irritation or burning of the skin may occur.
The client arrives at the emergency department complaining of back spasms. The client states, "I have been taking 2 to 3 aspirin every 4 hours for the last week, and it hasn't helped my back." Since acetylsalicylic acid intoxication is suspected, the nurse should assess the client for which manifestation? 1.Tinnitus 2.Diarrhea 3.Constipation 4.Photosensitivity
Answer: 1. Tinnitus Rationale: Mild intoxication with acetylsalicylic acid is called salicylism and is experienced commonly when the daily dosage is higher than 4 g. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is the most frequent effect noted with intoxication. Hyperventilation may occur because salicylate stimulates the respiratory center. Fever may result because salicylate interferes with the metabolic pathways coupling oxygen consumption and heat production. Options 2, 3, and 4 are not associated specifically with toxicity.
Acetylsalicylic acid has been prescribed for a client with rheumatoid arthritis, and the nurse provides instructions to the client about the medication. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching? 1."I should not crush or break the enteric-coated form of aspirin." 2."I need to take this medication on an empty stomach for it to work." 3."It may take 1 to 3 weeks for a therapeutic anti-inflammatory effect to occur." 4."I should call my primary health care provider if I experience stomach pain that will not go away."
Answer: 2. "I need to take this medication on an empty stomach for it to work." Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal agent and is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. The medication can cause gastrointestinal (GI) side/adverse effects, and the client is instructed that the medication can be taken with milk or meals if GI distress occurs. The enteric-coated form or sustained-release form should not be crushed or broken. It may take 1 to 3 weeks for a therapeutic anti-inflammatory effect to occur. If the client develops ringing in the ears or persistent GI pain, the primary health care provider needs to be notified. Ringing in the ears indicates toxicity, and persistent GI pain indicates gastric mucosal irritation.
The nurse is caring for a client with chronic back pain. Codeine has been prescribed for the client. Specific to this medication, which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care while the client is taking this medication? 1.Monitor radial pulse. 2.Monitor bowel activity. 3.Monitor apical heart rate. 4.Monitor peripheral pulses.
Answer: 2. Monitor bowel activity Rationale: While the client is taking codeine, the nurse would monitor vital signs and assess for hypotension. The nurse also should increase fluid intake, palpate the bladder for urinary retention, auscultate bowel sounds, and monitor the pattern of daily bowel activity and stool consistency, because the medication causes constipation. The nurse should monitor respiratory status and initiate deep breathing and coughing exercises. In addition, the nurse monitors the effectiveness of the pain medication.
A client with osteoarthritis is receiving diclofenac sodium. The nurse would be concerned about the administration of this medication if the client's history and physical included a diagnosis of which condition? 1.Graves' disease 2.Peptic ulcer disease 3.Coronary artery disease 4.Benign prostatic hypertrophy
Answer: 2. Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) Rationale: Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a prostaglandin inhibitor and decreases mucus production in the stomach. Use of NSAIDs in the client with ulcer disease could place the client at risk for perforation and hemorrhage. The diagnoses of Graves' disease, coronary artery disease, and benign prostatic hypertrophy are not concerns with the use of this medication.
A client with pulmonary edema has a prescription to receive morphine sulfate intravenously. The nurse should determine that the client is experiencing an intended effect of the medication as indicated by which assessment finding? 1.Increased pulse rate 2.Relief of apprehension 3.Decreased urine output 4.Increased blood pressure
Answer: 2. Relief of apprehension Rationale: Morphine sulfate reduces anxiety and dyspnea in the client with pulmonary edema. It also promotes peripheral vasodilation and causes blood to pool in the periphery. It decreases pulmonary capillary pressure, which reduces fluid migration into the alveoli. The client receiving morphine sulfate is monitored for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and extreme drops in blood pressure, especially when it is administered intravenously. The findings in the remaining options are unrelated to the action of morphine sulfate.
A home health nurse visits a client who suffered a back injury. On reviewing the primary health care provider's prescriptions, the nurse notes that codeine sulfate has been prescribed for the client, and the nurse provides instructions to the client regarding the medication. Which statement, if made by the client, indicates an understanding of health measures related to the medication? 1."The medication is not addicting." 2."I should watch out for diarrhea as a side effect." 3."I should increase my fluid intake while taking this medication." 4."I need to be sure to eat foods that are low in fiber to prevent diarrhea."
Answer: 3. "I should increase my fluid intake while taking this medication." Rationale: Codeine sulfate is an opioid analgesic used to treat pain and can cause constipation. Because it is an opioid analgesic, codeine sulfate can be addicting. The client is instructed to increase fluid intake to prevent constipation. The client also should consume foods high in fiber and should take a stool softener.
On admission the client tells the nurse that sumatriptan is prescribed. Based on this information, which question should the nurse ask the client? 1."Do you have frequent earaches?" 2."Do you experience sinus headaches?" 3."Have you had migraine headaches?" 4."Are you allergic to pollen or molds?"
Answer: 3. "have you had migraine headaches?" Rationale: Sumatriptan is used to treat migraine headaches. This medication constricts blood vessels around the brain and reduces substances in the body that can trigger headache pain. Sinus earaches, headaches, and allergies to pollen or mold are not treated with this medication.
The nurse is evaluating the serum acetylsalicylic acid results for a client receiving acetylsalicylic acid for rheumatoid arthritis. Which noted result is indicative that the client is within the range for the medication's antiarthritic effect? 1.10 mg/dL (0.72 mmol/L) 2.18 mg/dL (1.31 mmol/L) 3.26 mg/dL (1.88 mmol/L) 4.38 mg/dL (2.75 mmol/L)
Answer: 3. 26 mg/dL (1.88 mmol/L) Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal agent that is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. Serum blood levels may be determined periodically to assess for an effective antiarthritic effect in the client with rheumatoid arthritis. The therapeutic serum level for an antiarthritic effect is between 20 and 30 mg/dL (1.45 and 2.17 mmol/L). Toxicity occurs if levels are greater than 30 mg/dL (2.17 mmol/L).
A client was just admitted to the hospital to rule out a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed. The client has brought several bottles of medications prescribed by different specialists. During the admission assessment, the client states, "Lately, I have been hearing some roaring sounds in my ears, especially when I am alone." Which medication would the nurse identify as the cause of the client's complaint? 1.Doxycycline 2.Atropine sulfate 3.Acetylsalicylic acid 4.Diltiazem hydrochloride
Answer: 3. Acetylsalicylic Acid Rationale: Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is contraindicated for GI bleeding and is potentially ototoxic. The client should be advised to notify the prescribing primary health care provider so the medication can be discontinued and/or a substitute that is less toxic to the ear can be taken instead. Options 1, 2, and 4 do not have effects that are potentially associated with hearing difficulties.
The nurse is caring for a client receiving codeine sulfate for pain. The nurse determines that the client is experiencing a side or adverse effect of the medication based on which finding? 1.Distended jugular veins 2.Bounding peripheral pulses 3.No bowel movement in 3 days 4.Change in blood pressure from 120/60 mm Hg to 140/80 mm Hg
Answer: 3. No bowel movement in 3 days. Rationale: The client taking codeine sulfate is at risk for constipation. Thus, the nurse monitors the frequency of bowel movements. The nurse also would monitor the client for hypotension, decreased respirations, and urinary retention. The nurse would plan measures to counteract these expected effects, such as encouraging fluids, coughing and deep breathing, and increasing mobility to the extent tolerated by the client.
The nurse is caring for a client who has been taking hydrocodone for the last 3 months. For which side and adverse effects of this medication should the nurse assess the client? 1.Tachycardia and hypertension 2.Diarrhea and abdominal cramping 3.Psychological and physical dependence 4.Increased respiratory rate and bronchospasm
Answer: 3. Psychological and physical dependence Rationale: Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic that also has antitussive properties. Side and adverse effects of this medication include physical and psychological dependence, bradycardia and hypotension, respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting, constipation, sedation, and confusion.
A client with cancer is receiving a continuous intravenous infusion of morphine sulfate. The nurse monitoring the client for adverse effects would become most concerned about which vital sign? 1.Temperature of 99.1º F (37.3º C) 2.Blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg 3.Respirations of 10 breaths/minute 4.Apical heart rate of 90 beats/minute
Answer: 3. Respirations of 10 breaths/minute Rationale: Before an opioid is administered, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and pulse rate should be assessed. Morphine sulfate should be withheld and the primary health care provider notified if the respiratory rate is at or below 12 breaths per minute, if the blood pressure is significantly below the pretreatment value, or if the pulse rate is significantly above or below pretreatment value. A temperature of 99.1º F (37.3º C) is not associated with the use of morphine sulfate.
A film-coated form of diflunisal, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, has been prescribed for a client to treat chronic rheumatoid arthritis. The client calls the clinic nurse because of difficulty swallowing the tablets. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client? 1.Crush the tablets and mix with food. 2.Open the tablet and mix the contents with food. 3.Swallow the tablets with large amounts of water or milk. 4.Notify the primary health care provider for a medication change.
Answer: 3. Swallow the tablets with large amounts of water or milk. Rationale: Diflunisal may be given with water, milk, or meals. The tablets should not be crushed or broken open. This situation does not warrant primary health care provider (PHCP) notification at this time.
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), or aspirin, has been prescribed for a client with angina, and the client asks the nurse how the medication will help. The nurse responds that this medication has been prescribed for which purpose? 1.To reduce pain 2.To reduce inflammation 3.To inhibit platelet aggregation 4.To maintain a normal body temperature
Answer: 3. To inhibit platelet aggregation Rationale: ASA is a nonsteroidal agent that is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. All of the options identify actions of this medication; however, for the client with angina, this medication is prescribed to inhibit platelet aggregation.
The nurse has administered a dose of meperidine hydrochloride to a client with renal colic as treatment for pain. The nurse carefully monitors this client for which side and adverse effect of this medication? 1.Bradycardia 2.Hypertension 3.Urinary retention 4.Increased respirations
Answer: 3. Urinary retention Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride is an opioid analgesic. Side effects of meperidine hydrochloride include respiratory depression, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness and mental clouding, constipation, and urinary retention.
A client is admitted to the hospital, and the nurse notes that the client is taking acetylsalicylic acid to treat a chronic rheumatoid disorder. The nurse should monitor the client for which sign or symptom that indicates a toxic effect of the medication? 1.Jaundice 2.Peripheral edema 3.Ringing in the ears 4.Bilateral lung crackles
Answer: 3. ringing in the ears Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal agent that is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. Low-grade toxicity is characterized by ringing in the ears, generalized pruritus (which may be severe), headache, dizziness, flushing, tachycardia, hyperventilation, sweating, and thirst. Marked toxicity is manifested by hyperthermia, restlessness, abnormal breathing pattern, seizures, respiratory failure, and coma. In addition, high doses can produce gastrointestinal bleeding or gastric mucosal lesions. Jaundice, peripheral edema, and bilateral lung crackles are not toxic effects of this medication.
The home care nurse visits a client with a diagnosis of unstable angina. The client is taking acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) on a daily basis to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (MI). Which medication dose would the nurse expect the client to be taking? 1.3 g daily 2.1.3 g daily 3.650 to 700 mg daily 4.300 to 325 mg daily
Answer: 4. 300 to 325 mg daily Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) may be used to reduce the risk of recurrent transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or stroke or reduce the risk of MI in clients with unstable angina or a history of previous MI. The normal dose for clients being treated with acetylsalicylic acid to decrease thrombosis and MI is 300 to 325 mg daily, and some primary health care providers may prescribe an even lower dose. Clients taking aspirin to prevent TIAs usually are prescribed 1.3 g daily in 2 to 4 divided doses. Clients with rheumatoid arthritis may be treated with 3.2 to 6 g daily in divided doses.
The nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department who has been diagnosed with Bell's palsy. The client has been taking acetaminophen, and acetaminophen overdose is suspected. Which antidote should the nurse prepare for administration if prescribed? 1.Auranofin 2.Pentostatin 3.Fludarabine 4.Acetylcysteine
Answer: 4. Acetylcysteine Rationale: The antidote for acetaminophen is acetylcysteine. The normal therapeutic serum level of acetaminophen is 10 to 20 mcg/mL (40 to 79 mcmol/L). A toxic level is higher than 50 mcg/mL (200 mcmol/L), and levels higher than 100 mcg/mL (400 mcmol/L) could indicate hepatotoxicity. Auranofin is a gold preparation that may be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Pentostatin and fludarabine are antineoplastic agents.
The nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department who has been diagnosed with Bell's palsy. The client has been taking acetaminophen, and acetaminophen overdose is suspected. Which antidote should the nurse prepare for administration if prescribed? 1.Pentostatin 2.Auranofin 3.Fludarabine 4.Acetylcysteine
Answer: 4. Acetylcysteine Rationale: The antidote for acetaminophen is acetylcysteine. The normal therapeutic serum level of acetaminophen is 10 to 20 mcg/mL. A toxic level is higher than 50 mcg/mL, and levels higher than 200 mcg/mL 4 hours after ingestion indicates that there is risk for liver damage. Auranofin is a gold preparation that may be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Pentostatin and fludarabine are antineoplastic agents.
A client with vascular headaches is taking ergotamine. The home health nurse should periodically assess him or her for which finding? 1.Hypotension 2.Constipation 3.Dependent edema 4.Cool, numb fingers and toes
Answer: 4. Cool, numb fingers and toes Rationale: Ergotamine can produce vasoconstriction. The nurse periodically assesses for hypertension; cool, numb fingers and toes; muscle pain; and nausea and vomiting. This medication does not cause hypotension, constipation, or dependent edema.
A client with trigeminal neuralgia tells the nurse that acetaminophen is taken daily for the relief of generalized discomfort. Which laboratory value would indicate toxicity associated with the medication? 1.Sodium level of 140 mEq/L (140 mmol/L) 2.Platelet count of 400,000 mm3 (400 × 109/L) 3.Prothrombin time of 12 seconds (12 seconds) 4.Direct bilirubin level of 2 mg/dL (34 mcmol/L)
Answer: 4. Direct bilirubin level of 2 mg/dL (34mcmol/L) Rationale: In adults, overdose of acetaminophen causes liver damage. The correct option is an indicator of liver function and is the only option that indicates an abnormal laboratory value. The normal direct bilirubin level is 0.1 to 0.3 mg/dL (1.7 to 5.1 mcmol/L). The normal sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L (135 to 145 mmol/L). The normal prothrombin time is 11 to 12.5 seconds (11 to 12.5 seconds). The normal platelet count is 150,000 to 400,000 mm3 (150 to 400 × 109/L).
The nurse is caring for a client receiving morphine sulfate for pain. Because this medication has been prescribed for this client, which nursing action should be included in the plan of care? 1.Encourage fluids. 2.Monitor the client's temperature. 3.Maintain the client in a supine position. 4.Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe.
Answer: 4. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe. Rationale: Morphine sulfate suppresses the cough reflex. Clients need to be encouraged to cough and deep breathe to prevent pneumonia. The remaining options are not associated specifically with the use of this medication.
The nurse notes that a client taking ergotamine tartrate is having the intended effects of therapy if the client states relief from which symptom? 1.Cough 2.Diarrhea 3.Backache 4.Headaches
Answer: 4. Headaches Rationale: Ergotamine tartrate is used to stop an ongoing migraine attack; it also is used to treat cluster headaches. The other options are unrelated to the use of this medication.
The nurse is collecting data from a client and notes that the client is taking acetylsalicylic acid 5 g daily in divided doses. The nurse determines that this medication has been prescribed to treat which condition? 1.Backache 2.Muscle aches 3.Frequent headaches 4.Rheumatoid arthritis
Answer: 4. Rheumatoid arthritis Rationale: Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal agent that is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticoagulant properties. The client may self-administer acetylsalicylic acid to treat a headache, backache, or muscle aches, but a 5-g daily dose would not be used to treat these discomforts. A dosage of 3.2 to 6 g daily in divided doses may be prescribed for the client with rheumatoid arthritis.
A client with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is taking sulindac. The primary health care provider prescribes misoprostol for the client. The nurse explains that this medication has been prescribed for which purpose? 1.To enhance the effects of the sulindac 2.To prepare the client for weaning off the sulindac 3.To prevent further development of arthritic nodules 4.To prevent gastric complications such as ulcer disease
Answer: 4. To prevent gastric complications such as ulcer disease Rationale: Sulindac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue, may be prescribed to be taken concurrently with sulindac to prevent gastric complications such as ulcer disease. The remaining options are incorrect.
Meperidine hydrochloride is prescribed for a client with pain. What should the nurse monitor for as a side or adverse effect of this medication? 1.Diarrhea 2.Bradycardia 3.Hypertension 4.Urinary retention
Answer: 4. Urinary retention Rationale: Side and adverse effects of meperidine include respiratory depression, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness and mental clouding, constipation, and urinary retention; therefore, the remaining options are incorrect.
Diclofenac is prescribed for a client with osteoarthritis. Which medication, if noted on the client's record, would alert the nurse to consult with the primary health care provider? 1.Phenytoin 2.Primidone 3.Acetaminophen 4.Warfarin sodium
Answer: 4. Warfarin sodium Rationale: Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Interactions may occur with the use of anticoagulants, and the nurse should consult with the primary health care provider about a potential medication interaction if an anticoagulant is prescribed. Phenytoin and primidone are anticonvulsant medications, and acetaminophen is a nonopioid analgesic. These medications are not contraindicated with diclofenac.
A client who has been taking high doses of acetylsalicylic acid to relieve pain from osteoarthritis now has more generalized joint pain and an elevated temperature. The nurse should assess for which complication to determine whether the client has other signs of aspirin toxicity? 1.Diarrhea 2.Constipation 3.Double vision 4.Ringing in the ears
Answer: 4. ringing in the ears Rationale: Mild intoxication with acetylsalicylic acid, called salicylism, commonly occurs when the daily dosage is more than 4 g. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is the most frequent effect noted with intoxication. Hyperventilation also may occur because a salicylate stimulates the respiratory center. Fever may result because a salicylate interferes with the metabolic pathways coupling oxygen consumption and heat production. The remaining options are not signs of aspirin toxicity.
A client is seen in the hospital emergency department after injury to the right ankle. The client tells the nurse that she twisted her ankle while playing volleyball. The primary health care provider (PHCP) has prescribed a topical analgesic cream for the injury. The nurse providing instruction about the medication should provide the client with which information? 1.To avoid hazardous activities while using the cream because it causes drowsiness 2.To apply the medication three times a day and place a heating pad on top of the area 3.That the onset of headache indicates a systemic reaction and the PHCP must be notified 4.That the medication contains a combination of medications, one of which is an analgesic
Answer: 4.That the medication contains a combination of medications, one of which is an analgesic Rationale: Topical analgesics are used for the temporary relief of muscular aches, rheumatism, arthritis, sprains, and neuralgia. These types of products contain combinations of analgesics, menthol, local antiseptics, and counterirritants. Heat or a heating pad should never be applied because irritation or burning of the skin could occur. The medication does not act in a systemic manner, nor does the medication produce drowsiness.
