What are two independent risk factors for stress-induced peptic ulcer bleeding?

The correct answer highlights two critical independent risk factors for stress-induced peptic ulcer bleeding: being on a ventilator for more than 48 hours and coagulopathy.

Patients who are on mechanical ventilation for an extended period, specifically over 48 hours, are at higher risk of developing stress ulcers due to physiological stress. Mechanical ventilation tends to reflect a severe underlying condition, often accompanied by systemic stress responses, which contribute to mucosal injury and ulcer formation in the stomach.

Coagulopathy represents another significant risk factor, as it affects the body’s ability to form clots and repair injuries effectively. In critically ill patients, the prevalence of coagulopathy can increase, leading to higher chances of bleeding, including from stress-induced mucosal lesions. This interplay of being critically ill and having impaired hemostasis presents a compelling risk for significant morbidity.

Other options, while they may present certain risks in different contexts, do not specifically align with the independent risk factors recognized for stress-induced peptic ulcer bleeding. Understanding these factors is essential for preventing complications in critically ill patients.