Patterns of painkiller use in burn patients: A comparative study of Acetaminophen and Dexketoprofen

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Created On: 19/01/2024

This study explored the impact of non-opioid painkillers like Acetaminophen and Dexketoprofen on the management of adult burn patients not requiring intensive care unit admission.

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Key take away

The efficacy of Acetaminophen and Dexketoprofen in burn patients fluctuates throughout the day, with higher effectiveness observed during regular hours compared to dressing changes.

Background

This study explored the impact of non-opioid painkillers like Acetaminophen and Dexketoprofen on the management of adult burn patients not requiring intensive care unit admission.

Method

Overall, 13 consecutive burn inpatients were incorporated. Over a six-day period, subjects self-administered pain medication as required. Painkiller requirements were documented based on the duration of hospitalization and hours spent in the medical facility. The dressing change consistently occurred at 11 o'clock, and on the day of the operation, no dressing change took place in the ward.

To maintain consistency, both the wound dressing and surgery were conducted simultaneously at 11 o'clock. Surgical procedures were carried out only once, either on the fourth or fifth day of the six-day period. The time of medication usage was documented, and pain levels were assessed with the utilization of a visual analog scale (VAS). Subsequently, statistical analyses were conducted.

Result

There were no notable distinctions noted among age and gender categories. As the percentage of burns escalated, there was a corresponding rise in the quantity of painkillers consumed. Subjects exhibited the highest frequency of painkiller usage at 11 o'clock (during wound dressing changes) and the lowest at 14 o'clock. No substantial variation was identified in the pain-reducing effects between Paracetamol and Dexketoprofen.

Conclusion

Patients with burns experienced varying requirements for painkillers throughout the day. The efficacy of Dexketoprofen and Acetaminophen was greater during the day than during dressing changes. The total body surface area must be taken into consideration regarding the frequency and amount of painkillers administered.