Analgesic Overdose

The purpose of this course is to provide nurses with the information necessary to identify and treat analgesic overdoses in order to prevent unnecessary sequelae. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Describe the pathophysiology of acetaminophen poisoning.

2. Identify the toxic dose of acetaminophen and components of the assessment of patients with suspected overdose.

3. Evaluate approaches available for the treatment of acetaminophen poisoning.

4. Outline the initial assessment and care of a patient who has taken an overdose of aspirin.

5. Discuss antidotal therapies and specific interventions used for the treatment of aspirin poisoning.

6. Cite the toxic dose of ibuprofen and signs and symptoms of ibuprofen overdose.

7. Describe the treatment of a patient who has taken an overdose of ibuprofen.


This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.