Question

res?na PN 105 Fundamentals of Nursing I Aspirin - Peptic Ulcer PQ, a 72-year-old woman, has taken 650 mg of aspirin four times a day for 8 months to alleviate her symptoms of pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Four weeks ago a peptic ulcer developed 1. Explain the process in which PQ could have a peptic ulcer. How could this have been prevented? 2. Compare the similarities and differences in the side effects of salicylates with those of acetic acid agents, propionic acid agents, COX-2 inhibitors, and phenylatic acid. 3. What patient teaching points should PQ receive before and during the time she takes the aspirin? 4. How would COX-2 prevent the development of a peptic ulcer? 5. Would DMARD's be more helpful in alleviating PQ's symptoms? Explain your answer. 6. Compare the differences in the various types of DMARD'S Reviewed 11/18

Answer 1

1Q).

Ulcers occurring in the abdomen and duodenum are called, “peptic ulcers.” The peptic ulcers of in the mucous membrane of the abdomen are called gastric ulcers, ulcers of the duodenum are called, duodenal ulcers. Three factors contributing to peptic ulcer in the given patient are,

1. Regular intake of ibuprofen for the last 18 months
2. Regular intake of aspirin
3. Smoking for the last five years

PQ is taking aspirin for a long period of time (8 months, 4 times a day). Aspirin is the most probable cause of peptic ulcers in the given patient. This drug acts by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme. As it is a non-selective COX inhibitor (COX-1, and COX-2), it results in reduced gastric mucus secretion, which is actually needed for protecting the gastric wall from the acid secreted. Thus, prolonged usage of aspirin can result in peptic ulcers.