Husband home after i/o surgery on bi-cep tendon was given tylenol (acetaminophen) 3 and percocet which is better for pain and less side effects? are they the same?

No they aren't: and the prescription probably says something like take the Tylenol (acetaminophen) #3 (30 mg of codeine) two tablets for mild-moderate pain, and the Percocet (which is tylenol (acetaminophen) with oxycodone, ranging from 5-20 mg) for moderate-severe pain. Oxycodone is more potent that codeine, gets to the brain faster and more completely, and is generally "stronger" - also has fewer side effects. Codeine causes itching/flushing.

Meds: Both these meds have acetaminophen codeine has a history of more nausea and upset stomach. Either one can help pain and depends on the individual response as to which is more powerful the Percocet is considered more of an abuse drug by the FDA/ DEA