Medication Summary
Pain control is the mainstay of treatment in patients with phalangeal fractures.
Analgesics
Class Summary
Pain control is essential to quality patient care. Analgesics ensure patient comfort, promote pulmonary toilet, and have sedating properties, which are beneficial for patients who have sustained trauma or injuries.
Acetaminophen and Codeine (Tylenol #3)
Indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate pain.
Hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen (Vicodin ES, Lortab, Lorcet, Norcet)
Drug combination indicated for moderate to severe pain.
Antibiotics
Class Summary
Antibiotics are used for open contaminated wounds. Therapy must cover all likely pathogens in the context of this clinical setting.
Cefazolin (Ancef, Kefzol, Zolicef)
First-generation semisynthetic cephalosporin that arrests bacterial cell wall synthesis, inhibiting bacterial growth. Primarily active against skin flora, including Staphylococcus aureus. Typically used alone for skin and skin-structure coverage. IV and IM dosing regimens are similar.
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