Question

Which of the following preoperative patients likely faces the greatest risk of bleeding as a result of their medication?

1) A woman who takes metoprolol (Lopressor) for the treatment of hypertension
2) A man whose type 1 diabetes is controlled with insulin injections four times daily
3) A man who is taking clopidogrel (Plavix) after the placement of a coronary artery stent
4) A man who recently started taking finasteride (Proscar) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Answer 1

The preoperative patient who likely faces the greatest risk of bleeding as a result of their medication is the man who is taking clopidogrel (Plavix) after the placement of a coronary artery stent.

Step-by-step explanation:

The preoperative patient who likely faces the greatest risk of bleeding as a result of their medication is the man who is taking clopidogrel (Plavix) after the placement of a coronary artery stent.

Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug that inhibits the aggregation of platelets, which are responsible for clotting. This medication is commonly used after the placement of a coronary artery stent to prevent blood clots from forming and causing a blockage.

Since clopidogrel reduces the ability of platelets to clot, it increases the risk of bleeding, especially during surgery or other invasive procedures. Therefore, patients taking clopidogrel need to be carefully managed to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding