Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Which medication is commonly prescribed for patients with LEAD?

1. Aspirin

2. Ibuprofen

3. Metformin

4. Amoxicillin

The correct answer is: Aspirin

Aspirin is commonly prescribed for patients with Lower Extremity Arterial Disease (LEAD) due to its antiplatelet properties. In LEAD, the primary pathology involves atherosclerosis, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities. The risk of thrombus formation increases because of turbulent blood flow and endothelial injury associated with the narrowing of arteries. Aspirin helps reduce the risk of clot formation by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby improving blood flow and reducing the risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke, which are notably higher in patients with peripheral artery diseases. In contrast, the other medications listed serve different purposes: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily for pain relief and inflammation, rather than managing arterial disease. Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic agent for managing type 2 diabetes, and although managing blood sugar is crucial for overall vascular health, it does not directly address the vascular complications associated with LEAD. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections and has no role in the management of arterial disease. Therefore, aspirin stands out as the appropriate choice for preventing thrombotic complications in patients suffering from LEAD.