Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer: 1,3
Rationale 1: The dentist should be made aware that the client takes aspirin daily.
Rationale 2: Doses as small as 75 mg/day can increase the risk of bleeding.
Rationale 3: The usual recommendation is to discontinue use of aspirin a week prior to any dental or surgical procedure.
Rationale 4: Aspirin therapy can cause bleeding from dental procedures.
Rationale 5: Vitamin E does not reverse bleeding.
Global Rationale: The antiplatelet effects of aspirin can promote bleeding at sites other than the GI tract even in doses as small as 75 mg/day. Because it irreversibly inhibits COX-1 in platelets, the antiplatelet action of aspirin can be prolonged. It may take longer for minor cuts and injuries to stop bleeding. Patients undergoing surgical or dental procedures should discontinue aspirin use a week prior to the procedure. Vitamin E does not reverse bleeding.
Answer to Question 2
Correct Answer: 1,2,4
Rationale 1: The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is greater in people over age 60.
Rationale 2: The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is greater in people who smoke.
Rationale 3: Taking vitamin C is neither a recommendation nor a contraindication for use of aspirin.
Rationale 4: Clients with gastric ulcer disease have a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding while taking aspirin.
Rationale 5: Being of Hispanic heritage has no impact on whether aspirin therapy is safe.
Global Rationale: The most significant adverse effect of aspirin and other NSAIDs is GI bleeding. Although the risk is dose related, even low doses of aspirin (75325 mg/day) may double the risk of GI bleeding. Risk factors for aspirin-induced GI bleeding include history of peptic ulcers, age greater than 60, use of anticoagulants or corticosteroids, Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, and use of alcohol. Use of vitamin C and being of Hispanic heritage are not significant determinants in the use of NSAIDs.