American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the American Board of Internal Medicine Exam with our multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Enhance your medical knowledge and skills to excel in your certification exam with confidence!

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What is the appropriate timeframe for administering aspirin to reduce the risk of recurrent stroke after an acute ischemic stroke?

12 hours
24 hours
48 hours
72 hours

The correct answer is: 24 hours

Administering aspirin after an acute ischemic stroke is a critical step in reducing the risk of recurrent stroke. The recommended timeframe for initiating aspirin treatment is typically within 24 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms, as this timing has been shown to significantly improve outcomes and reduce the likelihood of subsequent strokes. Starting aspirin too early, such as within 12 hours, may increase the risk of complications, particularly when considering the potential for hemorrhagic transformation in patients who may have experienced a transient ischemic attack or are at risk for bleeding. Delaying administration beyond 24 hours, such as waiting for 48 hours or even 72 hours, is not ideal because this leaves patients vulnerable to further ischemic events during that period of delay. The evidence supports that the early initiation of aspirin, specifically within the set window of 24 hours, helps in promoting better overall management of stroke patients and enhances safety profiles concerning recurrent stroke prevention.