Pain Medication
You will receive narcotic pain medicine such as morphine or fentanyl through
your IV while you are on the breathing machine. After that, you will receive pain
medication in pill form. Percocet® and Norco® are often given for moderate pain.
As your pain lessens, you may take Tylenol®.
Whatever kind of pain medicine you are getting, it is most helpful to take it before
the pain gets severe. Don’t wait too long to ask for your pain medicine. This
makes it harder to get relief.
Common Side Effects of Pain Medication
Tell your nurse if you have any of these side effects or other symptoms of
concern:
• Nausea or Vomiting — You may have stomach upset with pain medication,
especially after surgery or when taking other new medications.
• Sedation — Some pain medication may make you feel very drowsy or sedated.
The nursing staff will check on you often to make sure you are safe.
• Dizziness — Sometimes after being in bed, having surgery, and taking pain
medications, you may get dizzy when you attempt to get out of bed. A staff
member will be present when you get up out of bed.
• Constipation — Pain medication affects your bowels by slowing them down.
Getting up and walking as soon as you are able is most helpful. Drink plenty
of fluids — 8 to 10 glasses each day. Your doctor may order a stool softener or
laxative if needed. Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
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