The same-day surgery nurse performs the preoperative assessment for a client with a history of coronary artery disease scheduled for an elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Which statement made by the client is critical to report to the health care provider (HCP) before the surgery?

Question

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Clopidogrel (Plavix) is an antiplatelet medication that should be discontinued 5-7 days before surgery to decrease the risk for excessive bleeding. The client took this drug 48 hours ago. Therefore, the nurse must notify the HCP. The surgery may be postponed due to the increased risk for intra- and post-operative bleeding (Option A). (Option B) All clients should try not to smoke for at least 24 hours before surgery to help prevent oxygenation problems. (Option C) The client takes gingko biloba to relieve symptoms of intermittent claudication; it was discontinued 2 weeks ago because it can increase the risk for excessive bleeding. (Option D) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as naproxen (Naprosyn) should be discontinued 7 days before scheduled surgery as they can increase the risk for excessive bleeding. Acetaminophen can be taken to control pain up until surgery. Educational objective: Medications (eg, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, NSAIDS, herbal drugs) that increase the risk for excessive bleeding should be discontinued at least 5-7 days before surgery.

The Same-Day Surgery Nurse Performs the Preoperative Assessment for a Client