Question

A nurse instructs the patient taking aspirin to avoid food containing salicylates because this increases the risk of adverse reactions. Which foods should the patient avoid?

A. Salt, soft drinks
B. Broccoli, Milk
C. Prunes, Tea
D. Liver, pepper

Answer 1

Patients taking aspirin should avoid foods containing salicylates, such as prunes and tea, to reduce the risk of side effects like gastrointestinal ulcers. Consulting a physician before starting or altering aspirin therapy is crucial due to its potential impact on organ health.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse instructs a patient taking aspirin to avoid foods containing salicylates to lower the risk of adverse reactions. These foods include prunes, tea, and other items rich in salicylates.

The patient should specifically avoid prunes and tea (option C), which are known to contain salicylates. NSAIDs like aspirin can lead to serious side effects, including an increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeds.

It is important for patients on aspirin therapy to understand that combining aspirin with other sources of salicylates can potentiate the anticoagulant effects and increase the risk of bleeding, hence the need to steer clear of such foods. For the prevention of vascular clotting or for pain and inflammation, a patient must consult a physician before starting or modifying an aspirin regimen, especially considering the potential side effects on kidney and liver health.