Patient education when prescribing clopidogrel includes:
1. Do not take any herbal products without discussing it with the provider.
2. Monitor urine output closely and contact the provider if it decreases.
3. Clopidogrel can be constipating, use a stool softener if needed.
4. The patient will need regular anticoagulant studies while on clopidogrel.
Question 2
Robert, age 51 years, has been told by his primary care provider (PCP) to take an aspirin a day. Why would this be recommended?
1. He has arthritis and this will help with the inflammation and pain.
2. Aspirin has anti-platelet activity and prevents clots that cause heart attacks.
3. Aspirin acidifies the urine and he needs this for prostrate health.
4. He has a history of GI bleed, and one aspirin a day is a safe dosage.