Question

A 50-year-old female patient asks a nurse about taking aspirin to prevent heart disease. The patient does not have a history of myocardial infarction. Her cholesterol and blood pressure are normal, and she does not smoke. What will the nurse tell the patient?

a. Aspirin is useful only for preventing a second myocardial infarction.
b. She should ask her provider about using a P2Y12 ADP receptor antagonist.
c. She should take one 81-mg tablet per day to prevent myocardial infarction.
d. There is most likely no protective benefit for patients her age.

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the patient that aspirin is typically prescribed for those with a history of heart disease or specific high-risk factors, and her current health status might not warrant its use for heart disease prevention. She should consult her healthcare provider for personalized advice, considering the potential risks and benefits of aspirin therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should inform the patient that the use of aspirin for the primary prevention of myocardial infarction in individuals without a history of cardiovascular disease is not routinely recommended. Instead, aspirin is typically prescribed for individuals with a known history of heart disease, or for those who have specific risk factors that markedly increase their risk of developing heart disease in the near future. High-risk factors include conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or a smoking habit, which significantly elevate the likelihood of coronary artery disease. For such patients, the protective benefits of aspirin might outweigh the potential risks.

In the case of this 50-year-old woman with normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and no history of smoking or myocardial infarction, aspirin's benefits may not justify the risk of side effects such as ulcers. Therefore, aspirin therapy might not offer a protective benefit for her. It is important for the patient to consult with her healthcare provider before starting any medication, as individual risks and health status must be considered.

In conclusion, the nurse should recommend that the patient have a discussion with her healthcare provider for personalized advice. A healthcare provider can assess her individual situation and consider factors such as age, gender, and other health conditions to make an informed decision on the appropriateness of aspirin therapy or other alternatives like P2Y12 ADP receptor antagonists or dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT), if indicated.