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    Hesi rn 315 pharmacology proctored exam

    A client has a prescription for clopidogrel bisulfate 75 mg by mouth daily at 0900. In which situation should the nurse hold this medication?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Elective surgery is scheduled in two hours: Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet agent that significantly increases the risk of bleeding. It should be held prior to surgery to minimize intraoperative and postoperative bleeding risks. Surgeons often require clopidogrel to be discontinued several days in advance, making it critical to withhold the drug if surgery is imminent. B. An abdominal sonogram is scheduled: An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test that does not carry bleeding risks. There is no need to hold clopidogrel prior to sonogram procedures because it does not impact the safety or accuracy of the imaging study. C. Breakfast has not been eaten: Clopidogrel can be taken with or without food. Skipping a meal does not contraindicate administering the medication, although taking it with food can sometimes help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. D. The client's platelet level is high: Clopidogrel works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, not by lowering platelet count. A high platelet count alone is not a reason to withhold the medication unless there is a specific bleeding risk or another contraindication identified by the healthcare provider.

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