Pain Management and Pharmacology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to pain management, pharmacology, and the physiological aspects of pain and inflammation.

Types of Pain

Different classifications of pain, including Acute, Chronic, Cancer, Somatic, Superficial, Vascular, and Visceral.

Nociceptors

Receptors that signal pain, responding to tissue damage and inflammation.

COX-1 Enzyme

An enzyme that protects the stomach lining and regulates blood platelets.

COX-2 Enzyme

An enzyme that triggers inflammation and pain in response to tissue injury.

Inflammation Cardinal Signs

Redness (erythema), Swelling (edema), Heat, Pain, and Loss of function.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that inhibit COX enzymes and reduce inflammation and pain.

Prostaglandins

Chemical mediators that increase capillary permeability, vasodilation, pain, and fever.

Aspirin

The oldest NSAID used for pain relief and antipyretic effects; also used in low doses for antiplatelet purpose.

Children Pain Assessment

Utilizes the Ouch scale, where children choose faces expressing their pain levels.

Salicylates

A group of drugs, including aspirin, that have anti-inflammatory properties and induce side effects like tinnitus and peptic ulcers.

Reye’s Syndrome

A serious condition associated with aspirin use in children under 12 during viral illnesses.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Adverse reactions to drugs, evident as tinnitus, dizziness, or bronchospasm.

Propionic Acid Derivatives

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen that provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Celecoxib

A COX-2 inhibitor used to decrease inflammation and pain, with a lower risk of GI side effects.

Older Adults and NSAIDs

Increased risk of GI distress and ulceration in older adults; reduced doses may minimize side effects.

Salicylate Poisoning Symptoms

Early signs include respiratory alkalosis and heavy breathing, later signs include metabolic acidosis.