Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the recommended management for a patient post-stroke?

1. 300mg aspirin followed by 75mg clopidogrel and a statin

2. Warfarin therapy alone

3. Only statin therapy

4. Physical therapy and counseling

The correct answer is: 300mg aspirin followed by 75mg clopidogrel and a statin

The recommended management for a patient post-stroke involves the use of antiplatelet agents and statins to prevent recurrence and to manage vascular health. Administering 300mg of aspirin initially followed by a maintenance dose of 75mg clopidogrel effectively reduces the risk of further thrombotic events. The dual antiplatelet therapy is particularly beneficial within the first few weeks post-stroke, especially for patients with ischemic strokes. Additionally, statins are essential for cholesterol management and have been shown to provide further protective benefits through their lipid-lowering effects and potential anti-inflammatory properties. In contrast, utilizing warfarin therapy alone would generally be reserved for specific types of strokes, such as those associated with atrial fibrillation. Relying only on statin therapy would not adequately address the immediate need for antiplatelet protection after a stroke. Physical therapy and counseling are important components of rehabilitation, but they do not directly address the prevention of secondary strokes, which is crucial in post-stroke management. Thus, the combination of aspirin, clopidogrel, and a statin provides a comprehensive approach to minimize the risk of further strokes while addressing cardiovascular health proactively.