Which client is considered safe to use tramadol?

Tramadol is an opioid analgesic that is typically used to treat moderate pain. The safety profile of tramadol includes considerations of age, coexisting conditions, and potential interactions with other substances.

In the case of a healthy adult experiencing moderate pain from a torn Achilles' tendon, tramadol is appropriate because this individual does not have any contraindicating conditions like a history of seizures or substance use issues that could complicate its use. Tramadol, while effective, can lower the seizure threshold, making it less suitable for individuals with seizure histories. Additionally, the combination of tramadol with alcohol can pose serious risks, including increased sedation and potential respiratory depression.

For younger individuals such as a 14-year-old with post-operative pain, tramadol's use is more controversial, as it may not be as well-studied or approved for use in pediatric populations, leading to potential safety concerns. Therefore, a healthy adult with moderate pain represents the safest scenario for tramadol usage.