A 71-year-old male client with a history of myocardial infarction (MI) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) has been advised by
his family physician to begin taking 81 mg aspirin once daily. Which statement best captures an aspect of the underlying rationale for the physician’s suggestion?
Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug made from the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called COX (cycloxygenase), which converts the arachidonic acid molecule into prostaglandins, mediators present in inflammatory processes. Therefore, by inhibiting the action of COX, aspirin helps in the treatment of inflammatory processes. Its proved that acetylsalicylic acid also prevents platelets from clustering and clogging blood vessels, so it is used to prevent infarction, peripheral vascular disease or stroke.
People who have had an episode of cardiovascular problems, such as stroke or heart attack, are more likely to recur. Therefore, aspirin 81mg can be used for prevention.
