aspirin

Class

Anti-platelet agents, non-opioid, analgesic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Action

Produce analgesia and reduce fever by inhibiting prostaglandin production.

Decreases platelet aggregation.

Therapeutic Effects

Analgesia, reduced, inflammation, reduced fever.

Decreased incident of transient ischemic attacks and MI.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, epigastric distress, G.I. bleeding, hepatotoxicity

Route/Dosage

Prevention of MI/antiplatelet effects:

PO: 80 - 325mg once daily

Suspected acute MI: 160mg as soon as suspicion occurs

Contraindications/Precautions

Hypersensitivity, bleeding disorders, or thrombocytopenia, cross sensitivity with other NSAIDs

Interactions

Heparin like agents, thrombolytic agents:

• May increase risk of bleeding

Ibuprofen:

• May negate cardioprotective antiplatelet effects of low-dose aspirin

Nursing Implications/Implementation

• Monitor for S/S of DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms)

• Asthma, allergies, nasal polyps, and allergies to tartrazine are at increased risk of hypersensitivity reaction.

• Use lowest effective dose for shortest period of time.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Relief of mild to moderate discomfort.

Prevention of MI.

Prevention of transient ischemic attacks.

Reduction of fever.

Patient/Family Teaching

Take with full glass of water, and remain in the upright position for 15-30 minutes after.

Advised to report, tinnitus, unusual gum bleeding, black/tarry stool, fever greater than three days

Avoid alcohol to minimize, G.I. irritation, and risk of G.I. bleed