when NPO {pre-op}, then for analgesic:

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2007

This would have been an oversight by the doctor. Call the doctor for an order for something.

meandragonbrett · Jul 5, 2007

Call and get and order for something IV

Tweety, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2007

I would give the Tylenol #3 with sips if nothing else is ordered.

If you're looking for an alternative, Morphine IV about 4mg would probably control pain that has been controlled with Tylenol #3.

GingerSue · Jul 6, 2007

this is hypothetical patient,

So I probably would ask the physician for something during the night.

Patient is going to the OR for 0800, so the IV is being started at 0600

Pre-op demerol & atropine is to be given at 0700

If NPO after midnight, and probably had last po tylenol #3 at hs,

is there something sc or IM {rather than IV - because it hasn't been started yet}?

Or is the oral tylenol #3 okay during the night around 0300?

thanks everybody

meandragonbrett · Jul 6, 2007

Um....if they are in the hospital they should have a line. Go ahead and start your line and give some morphine.

I know it's not a real patient....but demerol? C'mon!! It's neurotoxic!

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Jul 6, 2007

Morphine can be given IM, subcutaneously or in a rectal suppository. Codeine can also be given subcutaneously or IM. Tylenol can be given by rectal suppository.

GingerSue · Jul 6, 2007

I know it's not a real patient....but demerol? C'mon!! It's neurotoxic!

about the demerol - this was also a question that I asked of the course facilitator - because there are some problems re: demerol - therefore would it be better to question this and have something else ordered -- and the reply was that the use of demerol was not the purpose of this particular assignment (so just go ahead and use it in the answer). (maybe it's an old question/assignment that needs to be updated?)

Anyway, there are options for pain relief during the night, after NPO.

thanks again