title: Acetaminophen by infusion.
abstract: Acetaminophen is a nonsteroidal, nonsalicylate analgesic and antipyretic that is, today, the most common medication ingredient found in oral and rectal over-the-counter and prescription drugs. However, it was not until 2010 that Ofirmev (acetaminophen), an injection form of acetaminophen, was approved for treating mild to moderate pain, as an adjunct to opioids for severe pain, and reduction of fever in those younger than 2 years. Thus, intravenous acetaminophen may be appropriately used in a wide variety of settings and nurses who are knowledgeable and informed about the correct use of intravenous acetaminophen will be able to reduce the potential for medication misadventures. In this article, the uses and cautions for Ofirmev are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Beatrice B. Turkoski, PhD, RN, Graduate Faculty, Advanced Practice Nursing, Kent State University College of Nursing, Kent, OH.
authors.forename: Beatrice B
authors.initials: BB
authors.lastname: Turkoski
mesh_terms: D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004333:Drug Administration Routes; D004496:Education, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012007:Rectum
chemical_list: D000082:Acetaminophen