- Body system
- Pain
- Brand names
- Toradol, Sprix
What is Ketorolac used for?
- Short-term management of moderately severe acute pain that needs opioid-level relief
How Ketorolac works
Potent NSAID: inhibits prostaglandin synthesis.
Common side effects
- GI bleeding
- Kidney injury
- Bleeding
- Nausea and dyspepsia
- Fluid retention
Report right away
- Black stools, vomiting blood or abdominal pain
- Decreased urine output
- Unusual bleeding
Nursing considerations for Ketorolac
- Total treatment (IV, IM and oral combined) must not exceed 5 days.
- Contraindicated with active or recent GI bleeding, advanced kidney impairment or volume depletion, high bleeding risk, before major surgery, during labor and delivery, and with aspirin or other NSAIDs.
- Monitor kidney function, urine output and for bleeding; doses are lower for older adults and patients under 50 kg.
Patient teaching
- Do not take other NSAIDs or aspirin with it.
- Report any bleeding or reduced urination.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
NSAIDs and acetaminophen practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Ketorolac belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
-
Which finding in a patient taking ibuprofen daily should be reported?
Show answer
Answer D: Black, tarry stools Black, tarry stools suggest upper GI bleeding, a serious NSAID complication.
-
What is the antidote for acetaminophen overdose?
Show answer
Answer A: Acetylcysteine Acetylcysteine replenishes glutathione and protects the liver after acetaminophen overdose.
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What is the maximum total duration of ketorolac therapy?
Show answer
Answer A: 5 days Ketorolac (all routes combined) is limited to 5 days because of the risk of GI bleeding and kidney injury.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ketorolac used for?
Short-term management of moderately severe acute pain that needs opioid-level relief.
What drug class is Ketorolac?
Ketorolac belongs to the class NSAIDs and acetaminophen. Potent NSAID: inhibits prostaglandin synthesis.
What are the nursing considerations for Ketorolac?
Total treatment (IV, IM and oral combined) must not exceed 5 days. Contraindicated with active or recent GI bleeding, advanced kidney impairment or volume depletion, high bleeding risk, before major surgery, during labor and delivery, and with aspirin or other NSAIDs.
What should patients report while taking Ketorolac?
black stools, vomiting blood or abdominal pain; decreased urine output; unusual bleeding.