Aspirin (ASA)

Question 1

ASA - Class

Answer 1

• Analgesic, antipyretic, antiinflammatory

* Platelet aggregation inhibitor

Question 2

ASA - Actions

Answer 2

• Blocks clotting mechanism by inhibiting platelets to accumulate around damaged area of blood vessels.
• Promotes blood flow to ischemic heart tissues.

Question 3

ASA - Indications

Answer 3

CP/Discomfort of a suspected cardiac orgin

Question 4

ASA - Dosage/Route

Answer 4

324mg PO or 4 chewed baby ASA (81mg each)

Question 5

ASA - Side Effects

Answer 5

• Tinnitus
• GI Upset (dyspepsia, heartburn, epigastric pain, nausea)
• GI Bleeding

Question 6

ASA - Contraindications

Answer 6

• Known allergy to ASA or ASA induced asthma.
• Bleeding disorders
• Chicken-pox/Flu symptoms in children

Question 7

ASA - Special Info

Answer 7

• On-line medical control should be consulted for pt. taking anticoagulants (Coumadin, heparin)
• Use with caution: last trimester of pregnancy, pts. with gastric ulcers or GI bleeding
• Decomposes at high temperatures or humidity, discard pills that crumble easily or have a vinegar odor
• Cross sensitivity with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (Motrin, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen) may exist
• Pts. who have taken their own ASA within 24 hours do not need to take more
• Use caution in pregnancy (may have adverse effects on fetus and mother)
• Use linked to Reye Syndrome in children with viral illness

Question 8

ASA - Pediatric Note

Answer 8

Not indicated in the emergency setting