The nurse is caring for an adult client with a remote history of a GI bleed and a recent MI. The health care provider prescribed daily enteric-coated aspirin. Which of the following statements would require correction by the nurse?

Explanation

• The nurse will correct any statement that is false.

• Enteric-coated aspirin is made to bypass the stomach and be digested by the intestines to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers. Enteric coated aspirin should never be chewed in someone with a history of GI bleeds because this would increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. 

• Not only is the prescribed aspirin not intended for the patient's infant, but aspirin is only approved for use in children over the age of 2 (not younger). Also, caution is advised in children because after certain viral illnesses (particularly influenza or chicken pox) children and teenagers can develop Reye syndrome.  Reye syndrome causes swelling of the liver and brain and can cause permanent brain damage or death. 

• Coffee ground emesis and/or tarry stools are signs of a potential GI bleed and should be reported immediately.  Regular aspirin intake increases risk for GI bleeding. 

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