Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

Why is it advised for patients to discontinue Ginkgo biloba before surgery?

1. Intensification of the sedation effects of narcotics and anesthesia agents

2. Decreased heart rate and blood pressure

3. Exacerbation of immune system function

4. Reduction of platelets and the effect on clotting mechanisms

The correct answer is: Reduction of platelets and the effect on clotting mechanisms

Discontinuing Ginkgo biloba before surgery is primarily advised due to its effects on platelets and clotting mechanisms. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to inhibit platelet activating factor, which can lead to reduced platelet aggregation. This reduction in platelet function can significantly affect the body’s ability to form clots, increasing the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. When a surgical procedure is performed, the body's normal hemostatic processes are crucial for managing bleeding. If a patient has decreased platelet function as a result of Ginkgo biloba ingestion, there is a heightened risk of excessive bleeding, which can complicate the surgery and recovery process. Therefore, it is important for patients to stop taking Ginkgo biloba in the days leading up to surgery to ensure that their clotting mechanisms function optimally. While the other options may have relevance to surgical contexts or patient care, they do not specifically address the significant impact of Ginkgo biloba on bleeding and hemostasis, which is why the focus here is on its effect on platelets and clotting.