CASE STUDY A
Acute Pain
L.Y. is a healthy 13-year-old who had all her wisdom teeth removed 6 hours ago and is experiencing significant pain. She has been prescribed acetaminophen and codeine for pain relief and is at home recovering. Her mother wants her to rest and stop text- messaging her friends about her dental surgery.
1. How do acetaminophen and codeine act to reduce pain? What is a side effect of high levels of each drug? Why has the dentist prescribed only a limited supply of the medication?
2. How does L.Y.'s text-messaging behavior affect her perception of pain?
3. Does L.Y. need to rest in bed quietly to reduce pain?
4. L.Y. becomes increasingly irritated with her mother and tells her to "get off my case." How does L.Y.'s stress affect pain perception?
1. Acetaminophen and codeine act to reduce pain through different mechanisms. Acetaminophen is an analgesic and antipyretic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain and inflammation. Codeine is an opioid analgesic that acts by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain. Side effects of high levels of acetaminophen include liver damage, while high levels of codeine can lead to respiratory depression, constipation, and addiction. The dentist prescribed a limited supply of the medication to minimize the risk of side effects and potential dependence.
2. L.Y.'s text-messaging behavior may have both positive and negative effects on her perception of pain. On one hand, communicating with friends can provide a distraction, which may help to reduce the perceived intensity of the pain. On the other hand, continually discussing her dental surgery may keep her focused on the pain, potentially exacerbating it.
3. Resting in bed quietly may help L.Y. to reduce pain by allowing her body to recover and heal. However, engaging in gentle activities that distract her from the pain, such as reading or watching a movie, can also be beneficial. It's essential to find a balance between rest and distraction that works best for L.Y.
4. L.Y.'s stress can negatively affect her pain perception. Stress can increase the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can intensify the sensation of pain. Additionally, stress can exacerbate emotional responses, leading to increased discomfort and a heightened perception of pain. It's crucial for L.Y. to manage her stress levels during recovery to ensure optimal pain control.
Which of the following is NOT a health benefit of a "built environment"?
O visible and well-lit stairs
O increased levels of pollution
O designated bike paths and sidewalks
O housing built in close proximity to schools, shops, and work sites
Answer: increased levels of pollution
Explanation:
Increased levels of pollution is not a health benefit of a built environment. In fact, pollution has negative effects on health. A well-designed built environment promotes physical activity, social interaction, and access to essential services, which contribute to better overall health. Visible and well-lit stairs, designated bike paths and sidewalks, and housing built in close proximity to schools, shops, and work sites are all examples of features in a built environment that can promote health and well-being.
How does L.Y.'s text-messaging behavior affect her perception of pain?
_________ is having another person watch you lift and assist you if anything goes wrong. A. Coaching B. Observing C. Spotting D. Co-lifting
Answer:C spotting
Explanation: a spotter is a person who watches a person light or perform an exercise and helps only if needed to avoid injury to the