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1-58. NONNARCOTIC ANALGESIC/ANTIPYRETIC DRUGS

a. Nonnarcotic analgesic/antipyretic drugs are used to relieve pain of mild to moderate intensity and reduce body temperature in selected febrile conditions. Examples are: acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol^®, Datril^®).

b. Nursing care implications consist of administering aspirin products with food or milk, monitoring the patient for complications from aspirin therapy, observing the patient for allergic reactions to the drugs, and monitoring the patient's temperature.

c. Gastric irritation or bleeding and tinnitus (sensation of ringing in the ears) are complications of aspirin therapy. Gastric side effects may be minimized by giving medication with a full glass of water or with

milk, food, or an antacid. An exception is enteric-coated tablets, which may dissolve too quickly if taken with milk. Tinnitus is an indication of salicylate toxicity. The drug is generally discontinued with the onset of tinnitus. Inform the patient that the hearing impairment is reversible.