Concerns About Medication Dosage After Skin Tumor Surgery - Family Medicine

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It’s understandable to be concerned about medication dosages, especially after a surgical procedure like skin tumor removal. Your father’s situation raises important questions about medication management and the potential risks associated with incorrect dosages.

Firstly, let's clarify the medications involved. "克他服寧" (Ketorolac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for pain relief. The prescribed dosage of 25 mg four times a day is within the typical range for managing postoperative pain. However, the maximum recommended dosage for Ketorolac is generally 40 mg per day for oral administration, and exceeding this can lead to serious side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Your father’s decision to take "服他寧" (which is likely a reference to a different medication, possibly a stronger NSAID or a different class of pain reliever) at a higher dosage raises concerns. If he took 75 mg of this medication in addition to the prescribed Ketorolac, it could potentially lead to an overdose, depending on the specific medication and its recommended dosage guidelines. It’s crucial to know the exact medication he took, as different drugs have different safety profiles and maximum dosages.

Given that your father is experiencing pain at the surgical site, it’s important to address this with his healthcare provider. Pain after surgery can be expected, but if it is severe or persistent, it may indicate complications such as infection, inadequate pain management, or other issues that need to be evaluated.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your father’s safety and well-being:
1. Consult the Doctor Immediately: Contact your father’s healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss the situation. Provide them with all the details regarding the medications taken, including dosages and timing. They will be able to assess whether any immediate action is necessary.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your father for any unusual symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, redness at the surgical site, nausea, vomiting, or any signs of gastrointestinal distress (like black stools or abdominal pain). These could indicate a reaction to the medication or complications from the surgery.

3. Review Medication Instructions: Ensure that all medications prescribed are clearly understood. If there is any confusion about dosages or timing, it’s best to clarify this with the prescribing physician or a pharmacist.

4. Pain Management Alternatives: If the prescribed medication is not managing the pain effectively, the doctor may consider alternative pain management strategies. This could include adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or adding adjunct therapies such as physical therapy or topical treatments.

5. Educate on Medication Safety: It’s essential to educate your father and any caregivers about the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages and the potential risks of self-medicating or adjusting dosages without consulting a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, while it’s important to manage pain effectively after surgery, it’s equally crucial to do so safely. Open communication with healthcare providers, careful monitoring of symptoms, and adherence to prescribed medication regimens are key to ensuring a smooth recovery. If there are any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your father’s health and safety should always come first.