Master Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid) with Picmonic for Nursing RN

By inhibiting cyclooxygenase, aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation. Aspirin’s inhibition of platelet aggregation is irreversible and effects will last the lifespan of the platelet, roughly 8 days.

Aspirin is considered a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID). Aspirin functions by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX). In low doses, aspirin aids in the relief of pain. In higher doses aspirin functions as an anti-inflammatory medication.

Aspirin is one of the few NSAIDs that aids in preventing thrombotic events, such as a stroke of myocardial infarction. It has also been noted to decrease the risk of colorectal cancers.

In low doses, aspirin provides mild to moderate pain relief. Cyclooxygenase increases the signal and intensity of pain. Therefore by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, aspirin is able to provide relief to pain.

In higher doses, aspirin has anti-inflammatory effects. It may be an initial drug of choice in the management of inflammatory conditions, such as juvenile arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. It is also indicated in conditions, such as rheumatic fever, tendinitis, and bursitis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, are utilized as fever reducers.

Aspirin may damage the bone marrow and result in pancytopenia, which includes aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis, and thrombocytopenia. Those who are older than 60 and have been taking aspirin regularly for 1-6 months are at greatest risk for the development of aspirin induced pancytopenia.

High dose aspirin may promote the development of severe gastric ulcers and stomach bleeding, as it erodes the gastric lining. Because aspirin is an acidic molecule, it is absorbed through the gastric lining and into the bloodstream. The consumption of alcohol should be avoided, as it increases the irritating effects of aspirin on the gastric mucosa.

Aspirin increases the risk for bleeding as it results in irreversible inhibition of platelet aggregation. Therefore, aspirin’s effect lasts the entire lifespan of the platelet, roughly 8 days. The patient on aspirin should be assessed for signs of bleeding, such as bruising. Aspirin should not be taken with other anticoagulation medications.

Because aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation for the entire lifespan of the platelet, around 8 days, it should be held 7-10 days before surgery. If the patient continues taking aspirin before surgery, they are at increased risk of hemorrhaging during surgery. In patients who have previously undergone PCI or endarterectomy, aspirin should not be discontinued. Aspirin may also be continued in certain minor procedures.

Aspirin should not be administered to children under 18 years old, as it can produce Reye’s Syndrome. Typically, this syndrome develops in children recovering from chickenpox or other viral illnesses who take aspirin. Therefore, aspirin should never be given to children recovering from illness.