exam 3 week 9 Pain Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Flashcards

This flashcard set covers the pathophysiology of pain, various assessment scales (FLACC, PAINAD, Wong-Baker), and the pharmacology of nonopioid and opioid analgesics as presented in NURS 2301.

Transduction

The process where noxious stimuli activates nociceptors located in the skin, muscle, joints, and viscera.

Nociceptors

Pain receptors located in the skin, muscle, joints, and viscera that are activated by noxious stimuli during transduction.

A-delpha fibers

Afferent fibers that transmit sharp, localized electrical signals.

C fibers

Afferent fibers that transmit dull, aching electrical signals.

Perception

The stage of pain processing that occurs in the Thalmus, limbic system, and cerebral cortex, influenced by emotional, cognitive, and contextual factors.

Modulation

The process by which the CNS adjusts pain signals through descending pathways using Serotonin, Norepinephrine, and endogenous opioids (endorphins).

Gate Control Theory of Pain

A theory stating that pain perception is regulated by a "gate" mechanism where non-painful stimuli, such as touch, pressure, and massage, can reduce pain.

Diaphoresis

Sweating, which is a common sign and symptom of pain along with increased heart rate and blood pressure.

PQRSTU

A mnemonic for collecting subjective data about pain: P (palliative/provocative), Q (quality), R (region/radiation), S (severity), T (timing), and U (understanding).

Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale

A pain assessment tool using six faces ranging from $0$ (No Hurt) to $10$ (Hurts Worst).

FLACC Scale

A behavioral pain assessment scale used to evaluate Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability, with scores ranging from $0$ to $2$ for each category.

PAINAD

Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia; it evaluates Breathing, Negative Vocalization, Facial Expression, Body Language, and Consolability.

Pain-mediating chemicals

Substances that include Substance P, Prostaglandins, Bradykinins, and Histamine.

Opioid Receptors

Receptors in the body classified as Mu, Kappa, and Delta receptors.

Inflammation

A biological response characterized by five clinical signs: Heat, Redness, Swelling, Pain, and Loss of function.

1st Generation NSAIDs

COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors, such as the prototypes aspirin and ibuprofen, used to inhibit platelet aggregation, reduce fever, and relieve mild-moderate pain.

Salicylism

A condition resulting from aspirin toxicity; patients should stop taking the medication if symptoms occur.

2nd Generation NSAIDs

COX-2 inhibitors like the prototype celecoxib, which suppress inflammation and relieve pain but carry risks of GI ulcers and thromboembolism.

Acetaminophen

A nonopioid analgesic that inhibits COX primarily in the CNS; limited to a maximum dose of $4\text{ grams}$ per day to prevent liver damage.

Acetylcysteine

The medication administered as an intervention for an acetaminophen overdose.

Tramadol

A dual-mechanism analgesic that binds to opioid receptors and blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in the CNS.

Morphine

An opioid analgesic prototype that binds to mu opioid receptors; contraindicated in respiratory depression and renal failure.

Naloxone

An opioid antagonist prototype used to block opioid receptors and reverse the effects of opioids (e.g., respiratory depression).