American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Study for the ABIM Certification Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Get ready to succeed!

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What is the main purpose of stopping new oral anticoagulants before surgery?

To reduce infection risk
To prevent significant bleeding
To enhance clotting factors
To facilitate general anesthetic

The correct answer is: To prevent significant bleeding

The main purpose of stopping new oral anticoagulants before surgery is to prevent significant bleeding. Anticoagulants are medications that inhibit the blood's ability to clot, thereby increasing the risk of bleeding during surgical procedures. When patients are on these medications, especially close to the time of surgery, they may experience excessive bleeding that can complicate the surgical process and increase the risk of postoperative complications. Therefore, it is crucial to temporarily discontinue these anticoagulants within a specific timeframe before surgery, depending on the type of anticoagulant used, the renal function of the patient, and the urgency of the surgical procedure. This practice is especially vital for procedures that involve significant manipulation of vascular structures or where there is a higher likelihood of bleeding, such as major surgeries. By stopping the anticoagulants, healthcare providers can ensure that the coagulation system has sufficient time to recover, reducing the risk of intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage.