Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What are the contraindications of aspirin?

1. Allergy

2. Bleeding ulcers/internal bleeding

3. Headache

4. Indigestion

The correct answer is: Allergy

Allergy is indeed a contraindication for the use of aspirin, as administering it to someone with a known allergy can trigger severe allergic reactions. Allergic responses can range from mild symptoms such as rash or itching to more severe responses like anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, taking a patient's medical history to assess for any allergies is crucial before administering aspirin, as it ensures patient safety and prevents adverse effects. In the context of the other options, while they might represent discomforts or side effects associated with aspirin, they do not rise to the level of outright contraindications. Bleeding ulcers or internal bleeding are more critical contraindications due to the risk that aspirin can exacerbate these conditions by interfering with blood clotting. Although a headache or indigestion may occur as common side effects, they are not conditions that prohibit the use of aspirin for someone who is otherwise eligible to take it.