Now let’s talk about aspirin, or shortened to ASA.
Aspirin blocks the formation of thromboxane A2, thus inhibiting the sticking together
of platelets and reducing clot formation.
The use of aspirin for myocardial infarctions helps to reduce death and the probability
of reinfarction and stroke.
Aspirin is indicated in the presence of signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndromes such
as those who are suffering from chest pain, chest pressure or discomfort including pain
radiating into the neck, jaw or down right or left arm.
Another reason for using aspirin is when there are ECG changes consistent with acute coronary
syndromes.
Examples of this would include but not be limited to ST elevation, depression or T wave
inversion.
Now, before giving aspirin, be sure to ask if a patient has a known hypersensitivity
like Sampter’s Triad.
This is a serious condition and can lead to a serious reaction when giving aspirin.
Now they also need to know, before giving aspirin, if they have bleeding disorders like
hemophilia or active ulcer disease or maybe recent gastrointestinal bleeding.
Be sure to ask if the patient has a severe allergy like anaphylaxis or asthma related
to aspirin as compared to a more moderate sensitivity like sneezing or stuffiness.
If the patient does not have a severe allergy to aspirin the benefits would definitely outway
the negatives.
The proper dose is to administer 2 to 4 chewable aspirin or 162-324 mg nonenteric coated aspirin
as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms.
Aspirin suppositories, usually a 300 mg dose, is a safe alternative if severe nausea, vomiting,
or gastrointestinal disorders are present.
Remember, in order to achieve a rapid therapeutic blood level, instruct the patient to chew
the oral aspirin before swallowing.