A 55-year-old patient asks a nurse about taking aspirin to prevent heart disease. The patient does not have a history of myocardial infarction. Her cholesterol and blood pressure are normal, and she does not smoke. What will the nurse tell the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ASA is used for primary prevention of MI in men and in women older than 65 years. This patient has no previous history of MI, so the use of ASA is not indicated. ASA is useful for primary prevention, but only when indicated by cardiovascular risk, based on age, gender, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and smoking status. A P2Y₁₂ ADP receptor antagonist is used as secondary prevention. This patient should not begin taking ASA unless her risk factors change, or until she is 65 years old.

A 55-Year-Old Patient Asks a Nurse About Taking Aspirin to Prevent