A nurse is caring for a client who reports a headache and has a history of a peptic ulcer. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer?
A.
Ketorolac
B.
Acetaminophen
C.
Aspirin
D.
Ibuprofen
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Acetaminophen.
Explanation:
When caring for a client with a history of peptic ulcers who reports a headache, the choice of analgesic is crucial due to the potential risks associated with certain medications.
- Ketorolac: This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain management. However, it can cause gastrointestinal (GI) irritation and increase the risk of ulcers, particularly in individuals with a history of peptic ulcers. Therefore, it is not a suitable choice for this client.
- Acetaminophen: This medication is generally considered safe for pain relief in clients with peptic ulcers. It is not an NSAID, which means it does not have the same risks for GI irritation or bleeding. Acetaminophen acts centrally in the brain to relieve pain and is an appropriate option for treating headaches without exacerbating the client’s ulcer condition.
- Aspirin: Aspirin is another NSAID that is well-known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Like ketorolac, aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of bleeding, making it an unsuitable choice for clients with a history of peptic ulcers.
- Ibuprofen: While ibuprofen is effective for pain relief and inflammation, it also belongs to the NSAID class. Similar to ketorolac and aspirin, it can lead to GI irritation and increase the risk of exacerbating peptic ulcers, particularly with long-term use or higher doses.
In summary, given the client’s history of peptic ulcers, acetaminophen is the safest and most appropriate choice for managing their headache. It alleviates pain without the gastrointestinal risks associated with NSAIDs, thereby ensuring the client’s safety while providing effective symptom relief.