Question

A pt with STEMI has ongoing chest dicomfort. Heparin 4000 units IV bolus and heparin infusion of 1000 units/hr are being administered. The pt did not take ASA because he has a hx of gastritis, which was tx 5 years ago. What is the next action?

A. Give ASA 160 to 325 mg to chew
B. Give clopidogrel 300 mg PO
C. Give enteric-coated ASA 75 mg PO
D. Give enteric-coated ASA 325 mg rectally

Answer 1

For a patient with STEMI and prior gastritis, the recommended next action is to give ASA 160 to 325 mg to chew due to the immediate need for aspirin's antiplatelet effects in acute myocardial infarction management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The next action for a patient with STEMI who has ongoing chest discomfort and a history of gastritis should be A. Give ASA 160 to 325 mg to chew. Aspirin is a cornerstone therapy in the management of STEMI due to its antiplatelet and anticoagulant properties. This helps to prevent further clot formation, which is crucial in the acute management of a myocardial infarction (MI). Since the patient's history of gastritis was treated 5 years ago, and in the acute setting of a STEMI, the benefits of giving chewable aspirin outweigh the risks associated with gastritis. Immediate administration of aspirin is essential in the management of MI, and using a chewable formulation allows for rapid absorption and quicker action.