A nurse is assessing a client who has hypercholesterolemia and is receiving simvastatin. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a potential adverse effect?
Blurred vision
Orthostatic hypotension
Urinary retention
Muscle weakness
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Blurred vision is not a common or serious side effect of simvastatin, as it does not affect the eyes or the vision. Blurred vision may be caused by other factors, such as diabetes, hypertension, or eye disorders.
Choice B reason: Orthostatic hypotension is not a common or serious side effect of simvastatin, as it does not affect the blood pressure or the vascular tone. Orthostatic hypotension may be caused by other factors, such as dehydration, anemia, or medication interactions.
Choice C reason: Urinary retention is not a common or serious side effect of simvastatin, as it does not affect the urinary tract or the bladder function. Urinary retention may be caused by other factors, such as prostate enlargement, infection, or nerve damage.
Choice D reason: Muscle weakness is a common and serious side effect of simvastatin, as it can indicate muscle damage or rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening condition that causes the breakdown of muscle tissue and the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can lead to kidney failure. Muscle weakness may be accompanied by muscle pain, tenderness, or dark urine. The nurse should monitor the client's creatine kinase (CK) levels and report any signs of muscle damage to the provider.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is: d. The client uses garlic to lower cholesterol levels.
Choice A: The client follows a low-fat diet to reduce cholesterol
Following a low-fat diet to reduce cholesterol does not have a significant impact on the effects of warfarin. While diet can influence overall health and cholesterol levels, it does not directly interact with warfarin’s anticoagulant properties.
Choice B: The client drinks a glass of grapefruit juice every day
Grapefruit juice is known to interact with various medications by inhibiting the cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP3A4. However, grapefruit juice does not significantly affect warfarin metabolism. It is more commonly associated with interactions with statins and other medications.
Choice C: The client sprinkles flax seeds on food 1 hr before taking the anticoagulant
Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which can be beneficial for heart health. However, there is no strong evidence to suggest that flax seeds significantly potentiate the effects of warfarin. They do not have a direct interaction with the anticoagulant properties of warfarin.
Choice D: The client uses garlic to lower cholesterol levels
Garlic is known to have antiplatelet properties, which can enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. This can increase the risk of bleeding in clients taking warfarin. Garlic can interfere with the blood clotting process, making it a significant factor to consider when managing a client on warfarin.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Injecting the medication into the abdomen above the level of the iliac crest is the correct action. This is the preferred site for heparin administration, as it has fewer blood vessels and nerves, and allows for better absorption of the medication. The nurse should avoid the area around the umbilicus, as it may have increased bleeding and bruising.
Choice B reason: Massaging the injection site after administration of the medication is not the correct action. This may cause hematoma formation, tissue irritation, and reduced effectiveness of the medication. The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the injection site for 1 to 2 minutes after administration.
Choice C reason: Using a 1-inch needle to inject the medication is not the correct action. This may cause pain, tissue damage, and bleeding. The nurse should use a 25- to 28-gauge needle that is 3/8 to 5/8 inch long to inject the medication.
Choice D reason: Using a 22-gauge needle to inject the medication is not the correct action. This may cause pain, tissue damage, and bleeding. The nurse should use a 25- to 28-gauge needle that is 3/8 to 5/8 inch long to inject the medication.
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