Ch. 17 Blood

Hoehn - Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th edition

Hoehn, Haynes, Abbott12th EditionMarieb Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138242732Not the one you use?Change textbook

Hoehn, Haynes, Abbott 12th Edition

Ch. 17 Blood

Problem 27

Chapter 17, Problem 27

Mr. Chu has been scheduled for surgery to have his arthritic hip replaced. His surgeon tells him he must switch from aspirin to acetaminophen for pain control before his surgery. Why?

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Understand the role of aspirin and acetaminophen in pain management: Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that also has blood-thinning (anticoagulant) properties, while acetaminophen primarily acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer without significant effects on blood clotting.

Recognize the importance of blood clotting during surgery: Proper blood clotting is essential to prevent excessive bleeding during and after surgical procedures.

Identify the effect of aspirin on blood clotting: Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation by irreversibly blocking the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which reduces the production of thromboxane A2, a molecule that promotes platelet clumping and clot formation.

Explain why aspirin is contraindicated before surgery: Because aspirin impairs platelet function and prolongs bleeding time, continuing aspirin before surgery increases the risk of excessive bleeding during the operation.

Understand why acetaminophen is preferred before surgery: Acetaminophen does not affect platelet function or blood clotting, making it a safer choice for pain control prior to surgery to minimize bleeding risks.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Aspirin's Effect on Blood Clotting

Aspirin inhibits platelet function, reducing blood clotting ability. This increases the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery, which is why patients are often advised to stop aspirin before surgical procedures.

Acetaminophen as an Alternative Pain Reliever

Acetaminophen provides effective pain relief without affecting platelet function or blood clotting. It is considered safer for managing pain before surgery because it does not increase bleeding risk.

Preoperative Medication Management

Managing medications before surgery is crucial to minimize complications. Surgeons often recommend stopping drugs like aspirin that affect bleeding, while substituting safer alternatives to ensure pain control without increasing surgical risks.

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Cancer patients being treated with chemotherapeutic drugs designed to destroy rapidly dividing cells are monitored closely for changes in their red and white blood counts. Why so?

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A reticulocyte count indicated that 5% of Tyler's red blood cells were reticulocytes. His blood test also indicated he had polycythemia and a hematocrit of 65%. Explain the connection between these three facts.

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Textbook Question

Amanda Healy, a young woman with severe vaginal bleeding, is admitted to the emergency room. She is three months pregnant, and the physician is concerned about the volume of blood she is losing.

What type of transfusion will probably be given to this patient?

Which blood tests will be performed before starting the transfusion?

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