A patient who takes aspirin for rheumatoid arthritis develops a headache and tinnitus. The patient's lab result includes a plasma salicylate level of 300 $\mu$g/mL, and a urine pH of 6.0. What action will the provider take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of headache and tinnitus, along with a plasma salicylate level of 300 µg/mL, suggest salicylate toxicity, which is a common side effect of aspirin overdose. The appropriate action is to withhold the aspirin until the patient's symptoms have subsided to prevent further toxicity.

A Patient Who Takes Aspirin for Rheumatoid Arthritis Develops a Headache