Before an appendectomy, which intravenous medication order should the nurse question in a 12-year-old patient?

In the context of preparing a 12-year-old patient for an appendectomy, ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used for its analgesic effects. However, it should be approached with caution in pediatric patients, especially before surgical procedures. The primary concern with using ketorolac in children is the risk of potential renal impairment and effects on platelet function, which can increase bleeding risks during and after surgery.

In the case of surgical procedures, maintaining hemostasis is critical, and using an NSAID like ketorolac may not be advisable due to these bleeding risks. In contrast, morphine and hydromorphone are opioids that are recognized for their efficacy in managing acute pain and can be carefully monitored for their sedative effects. Acetaminophen is also commonly used as it is generally safe for use in pediatric patients and does not pose the same risks related to bleeding.

Therefore, questioning the order for ketorolac signifies a focus on patient safety, particularly regarding the potential complications associated with its use before surgery, making it an important consideration for nurses in this scenario.