NSAIDs should be held prior to surgery for how long according to McGlamry?

NSAIDs should be held prior to surgery for how long according to McGlamry?

• A. 24 hours
• B. 48 hours
• C. 72 hours
• D. 1 week

Answer: (C)

NSAIDs can impair platelet function by blocking prostaglandin synthesis, which increases bleeding risk during surgery. To reduce this risk, the drug is stopped for a period before the procedure to allow platelets to regain their normal function. McGlamry recommends holding NSAIDs for about 72 hours prior to surgery. This 3-day window gives time for the medication to clear and for platelet function to return toward baseline, helping minimize intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. If a patient is on aspirin for cardiovascular protection, coordinate with the surgical team, since aspirin affects platelets more persistently.

NSAIDs can impair platelet function by blocking prostaglandin synthesis, which increases bleeding risk during surgery. To reduce this risk, the drug is stopped for a period before the procedure to allow platelets to regain their normal function. McGlamry recommends holding NSAIDs for about 72 hours prior to surgery. This 3-day window gives time for the medication to clear and for platelet function to return toward baseline, helping minimize intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. If a patient is on aspirin for cardiovascular protection, coordinate with the surgical team, since aspirin affects platelets more persistently.