PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What medication is commonly used to prevent vasospasm in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage?

1. Aspirin

2. Nimodipine

3. Warfarin

4. Antiplatelet agent

The correct answer is: Nimodipine

Nimodipine is the medication commonly used to prevent vasospasm in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Subarachnoid hemorrhage, which often results from ruptured cerebral aneurysms, can lead to delayed cerebral ischemia due to vasospasm of the cerebral vessels. Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker that specifically dilates these blood vessels and improves cerebral blood flow. It has been shown in clinical studies to significantly reduce the incidence of vasospasm and related complications in these patients. This protective effect on blood flow is crucial in preventing further neurological deficits. In contrast, aspirin, warfarin, and general antiplatelet agents are not effective in managing or preventing vasospasm associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Aspirin and other antiplatelet medications primarily prevent thromboembolic events and are not specifically indicated for this purpose, while warfarin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clotting, which does not directly address vasospasm. Therefore, nimodipine is the preferred choice for addressing and minimizing the risks of vasospasm in these patients.