11.1 Introduction to Analgesic Medications
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to
1. Describe the two main analgesic medication categories
2. List the four therapeutic effects of aspirin
3. Describe two therapeutic effects of acetaminophen
4. Define nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
5. List common narcotic and non-narcotic analgesic medications
6. Identify common adverse and side effects to analgesic medications
Chapter Overview
Complaints of pain are one of the most common reasons that individuals seek out medical care. Pain indicates that something in the body is not right and potentially requires medical treatment. Whether it is a headache, a broken bone, labour pain, chest pain, or another condition, pain medications are commonplace in healthcare facilities and in the general community. Although this may be a shorter chapter compared to some others, it is nonetheless important content and includes knowledge that can be applied to your day-to-day work in any healthcare profession and facility.
Attribution
Unless otherwise indicated, material on this page has been adapted from the following resource:
Ernstmeyer, K., & Christman, E. (Eds.). (2020). Nursing pharmacology. Chippewa Valley Technical College. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/pharmacology/, licensed under CC BY 4.0
