Aspirin is used in treatment of angina, its function as - - RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2024

RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2024

Pharmacology

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2024

Explanation

Aspirin is classified as an antiplatelet agent, and its primary function in angina is to prevent the formation of blood clots.
It works by irreversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) enzyme in platelets.
This inhibition prevents the synthesis of Thromboxane A2 (TXA2), a potent substance that promotes platelet aggregation.
By reducing platelet aggregation, aspirin decreases the risk of thrombus formation in the coronary arteries, which can precipitate a myocardial infarction.

Option A: Aspirin's primary mechanism in treating angina is not vasodilation. Its effects on blood vessel dilation are minimal compared to its potent antiplatelet action.
Option B: Thrombolysis involves dissolving existing blood clots. Aspirin prevents new clots from forming but does not break down clots that are already present.
Option D: This option is incorrect because only one of the listed functions, the prevention of platelet aggregation, is the correct primary action of aspirin in the context of angina.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Mechanism of action of aspirin in angina helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Aspirin is a cornerstone of secondary prevention in patients with coronary artery disease, significantly reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients on the signs of bleeding (e.g., easy bruising, black stools, bleeding gums) and the importance of taking aspirin with food to minimize GI irritation.
What if the patient is scheduled for elective surgery? The nurse should anticipate that aspirin will likely be discontinued 5-7 days prior to the procedure to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, as its antiplatelet effect is irreversible and lasts for the life of the platelet (about 7-10 days).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key components of the question: the drug (Aspirin), the condition (angina), and the required information (its function).
This is a pharmacology-based recall question. Access your knowledge about the major drug classes used to treat ischemic heart disease.
Recall that aspirin, at low doses, is a primary antiplatelet agent.
Evaluate each option against this knowledge. 'Prevention of Platelet aggregation' is the definition of an antiplatelet agent.
Consider the other options. 'Vasodilation' is the primary action of nitrates. 'Thrombolysis' is the action of fibrinolytics ('clot-busters').
Since only the antiplatelet function is correct, 'All of the above' must be incorrect. This confirms that the prevention of platelet aggregation is the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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