Question

Which one of the following is not a contraindication to the use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-TPA) in acute ischemic stroke?

A. Stroke occurrence 2 hours prior to r-TPA administration
B. Major surgery within 2 weeks of r-TPA administration
C. Uncontrolled hypertension
D. Prothrombin time (PT) >15
E. Thrombocytopenia

Answer 1

The option that is NOT a contraindication for the use of r-TPA in acute ischemic stroke is a stroke occurrence 2 hours prior to r-TPA administration. Timely administration within 3 to 4 hours after stroke onset is actually essential for improving patient outcomes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to the use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-TPA) in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, specifically addressing contraindications for its use. Of the options provided, Stroke occurrence 2 hours prior to r-TPA administration is not a contraindication to the use of r-TPA. In fact, timely administration within 3 to 4 hours after stroke onset can improve prognosis significantly. On the other hand, major surgery within 2 weeks of r-TPA administration, uncontrolled hypertension, prothrombin time (PT) >15, and thrombocytopenia are all contraindications due to increased risks of bleeding and complications with r-TPA use.