A Patient Has Used Enteric Aspirin for Several Years as Treatment

question 12

Multiple Choice

A patient has used enteric aspirin for several years as treatment for osteoarthritis. However, the symptoms are now worse and she is given a prescription for a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and misoprostol (Cytotec) . The patient asks the nurse, "Why am I now taking two pills for arthritis?" What is the nurse's best response?

• A) "Cytotec will also reduce the symptoms of your arthritis."
• B) "Cytotec helps the action of the NSAID so that it will work better."
• C) "Cytotec reduces the mucous secretions in the stomach, which reduces gastric irritation."
• D) "Cytotec may help to prevent gastric ulcers that may occur in patients taking NSAIDs."

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Definitions:

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, controlled by the autonomic nervous system.

Troponin

Globular protein component of the actin myofilament.

Calcium-Binding

Referring to the capability of certain proteins or molecules to bind calcium ions, which is important for various biological functions.

ATP

Adenosine Triphosphate, a molecule that carries energy within cells for metabolism and is considered the energy currency of life.