In a patient with hemophilia, what should be avoided due to its anticoagulant properties?

In managing a patient with hemophilia, it's crucial to avoid certain medications that can exacerbate bleeding tendencies due to their anticoagulant properties. Aspirin is particularly notorious for its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation, which can significantly increase the risk of bleeding in individuals with hemophilia who already have a deficiency in their clotting factors.

While non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen also carry a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, they are generally considered safer than aspirin in the context of hemophilia because they do not inhibit platelet function to the same extent. Factor VIII concentrate is a treatment for hemophilia and aids in clotting rather than hindering it. Ice packs are often used in the management of bleeding episodes to help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling.

Therefore, due to its serious effects on platelets and its potential to worsen bleeding in hemophilia, aspirin should be avoided in these patients.