Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

When is it contraindicated to use Ibuprofen?

1. Active vomiting

2. Use within 4 hours

3. Known liver disease

4. CVA or TBI in last 24 hrs

The correct answer is: CVA or TBI in last 24 hrs

Using Ibuprofen is contraindicated in cases of a stroke (CVA) or traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurred within the last 24 hours due to the potential for exacerbating bleeding and the risk of further complications. Ibuprofen is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which can interfere with platelet function and prolong bleeding times. In the context of a recent CVA or TBI, this could lead to increased morbidity and complications such as intracranial hemorrhage, making it crucial to avoid its use in such scenarios. The other conditions listed, while they may pose some concerns, do not have the same level of direct contraindication regarding bleeding risk associated with Ibuprofen. Active vomiting, use within a short timeframe, and known liver disease can present complications related to medication absorption, timing, or metabolism, but they do not pose the immediate danger to a patient as a recent CVA or TBI would in terms of bleeding risk. Thus, the risk associated with using Ibuprofen after a CVA or TBI is significantly more urgent.