ASPIRIN (ASA)

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

Anti-Platelet

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Inhibits platelet aggregation (and thereby, further clot formation).
This action results in an overall increase in survival from acute myocardial infarction.

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

Chest Pain - Uncertain Etiology ≥ 35 years of age
Acute Coronary Syndrome

Question 4

Contraindications:

Answer 4

1.)Active gastrointestinal bleeding
2.)History of aspirin allergy including angioedema and/or anaphylaxis
3.)History of asthma with aspirin-induced exacerbation

Question 5

Pharmacokinetics:

Answer 5

Absorption in stomach and small intestine, with onset of action within 30 minutes and duration of action for several hours.

Question 6

Side Effects:

Answer 6

Typically, none from single EMS dosing. Rare instances of nausea or allergic reaction could be encountered.
Treat allergic reaction
Acute Allergic Reactions.

Question 7

Dosage:

Answer 7

324 OR 325 mg chewed by patient (hold if taken 324+mg within 6 hours)

Question 8

How Supplied:

Answer 8

81 mg tablets
325 mg tablets
(Always check concentration and dose per container at time of patient medication administration)

Question 9

Special Comment:

Answer 9

Aspirin is indicated even if the patient is taking warfarin sodium (Coumadin®), clopidogrel (Plavix®), or other anticoagulant or antiplatelet agents on a daily basis.