Question

James Franklin was admitted to the emergency department after experiencing a stroke at 0930. At 1130, the doctor chooses to administer tPA. What is the appropriate rationale for this treatment?

Options:
A) To relieve pain
B) To prevent infection
C) To dissolve blood clots
D) To reduce fever

Answer 1

The appropriate rationale for administering a thrombolytic agent, such as tPA, to a patient who has suffered a thrombotic stroke is to dissolve blood clots.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate rationale for administering a thrombolytic agent, such as tPA, to a patient who has suffered a thrombotic stroke is to dissolve blood clots (Option C).

A thrombotic stroke occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, forms within a blood vessel in the brain. This clot can block blood flow to parts of the brain, leading to stroke symptoms.

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is an enzyme that can break down and dissolve blood clots. By administering tPA, the doctor aims to restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain, potentially minimizing the extent of damage and improving the patient's prognosis.