Which of the following should be continued after use of fibrinolytics in STEMI patients?

Continuing aspirin after the use of fibrinolytics in STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) patients is essential because aspirin plays a critical role in reducing the risk of recurrent thrombotic events. After fibrinolytic therapy, which helps dissolve the blood clot obstructing the coronary artery, aspirin acts as an antiplatelet agent, inhibiting further platelet aggregation and preventing the formation of new clots. This combination significantly improves patient outcomes by reducing the likelihood of complications such as reinfarction or stent thrombosis if percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) are performed later.

While clopidogrel is also an important antiplatelet agent and is often used in conjunction with aspirin, it is typically not initiated immediately following fibrinolytic therapy unless specific guidelines or clinical situations dictate it. β-blockers are beneficial in managing heart rate and blood pressure in STEMI patients, but their need depends on the individual patient's risk profile and clinical status. Nitroglycerin is useful for symptom relief in STEMI management, but its use may be limited by particular contraindications and is not a long-term medication post-fibrinolytic therapy.

In summary, continuing aspirin provides a protective effect against clot formation after the immediate intervention with fibr