Pre-Emptive Analgesia with Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) in Postoperative Pain

Objective: To evaluate efficacy and safety of preoperative paracetamol for postoperative pain relief. Methods: The study population consisted of 40 adult female patients scheduled for tubectomy as an elective surgery who were in ASA class I. Patients were allocated randomly to receive 325mg of acetaminophen orally half an hour before surgery. Pain was assessed by verbal rating scale in three situations (resting, moving and coughing). Data was collection done using the questionnaire and data analysis done using descriptive statistical methods. Results: The patients who received oral paracetamol experienced moderate and mild pain in 50% of the cases when they were in resting position. Feeling mild and moderate pain with movement was in 40% and 60% respectively. While coughing, 100% of the cases felt only moderate pain and none experienced severe pain. Conclusion: Administration of a single dose of acetaminophen in preoperative period is effective for acute postoperative pain relief.