The nurse evaluates a client's response to the prescribed atorvastatin. Which finding indicates an expected outcome?
Total cholesterol 198 mg/dL
Low density lipoprotein (LDL) 90 mg/dL
Serum albumin 6 g/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 25 units/L
The Correct Answer is B
A) Total cholesterol 198 mg/dL: While this value is within normal limits, it does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of atorvastatin treatment, which primarily aims to lower LDL levels. An optimal outcome would focus more on the LDL reduction rather than total cholesterol alone.
B) Low density lipoprotein (LDL) 90 mg/dL: This finding indicates an expected outcome of atorvastatin therapy. Atorvastatin is effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, which is a key target in managing hyperlipidemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. An LDL level below 100 mg/dL is generally considered optimal.
C) Serum albumin 6 g/L: This value is low and indicates potential malnutrition or liver dysfunction, which are not expected outcomes for a client on atorvastatin. A normal serum albumin level typically ranges from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL, so this finding is concerning.
D) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 25 units/L: While this ALT level is within the normal range, it does not directly reflect the primary goal of atorvastatin therapy, which is to lower LDL cholesterol. Monitoring liver enzymes is important, but the expected outcome would be more clearly indicated by improved lipid profiles, particularly LDL levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. increased fluid in the pericardial sac: While fluid accumulation can affect heart sounds, it typically leads to muffled heart sounds rather than a loud murmur. Increased fluid in the pericardial sac (pericardial effusion) usually does not produce a classic heart murmur.
B. dysfunction of one or more heart valves: This statement is correct. Heart murmurs are often caused by turbulence in blood flow due to the dysfunction of heart valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking). A loud murmur suggests significant turbulence, which is often indicative of valvular heart disease.
C. an aneurysm of the descending aorta: While an aortic aneurysm can cause other types of heart sounds or signs of cardiovascular compromise, it is not primarily associated with heart murmurs.
D. an occlusion of the right coronary artery: An occlusion may lead to ischemia or myocardial infarction, which can cause changes in heart sounds, but it does not directly cause a heart murmur. Murmurs are more specifically related to blood flow dynamics, particularly involving valves.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encourage oral fluids: While hydration is important, it is not the most immediate concern following the administration of prazosin.
B. Record the client's weight: Weight monitoring is not specifically indicated after the initial dose of prazosin and is not a priority action in this context.
C. Take a pulse oximetry reading: While monitoring oxygen saturation is important in many situations, it is not directly related to the administration of prazosin, which primarily affects blood pressure.
D. Place the call bell in reach of the client: This is the most appropriate action. Prazosin can cause orthostatic hypotension, particularly after the first dose, leading to dizziness or fainting. Ensuring that the call bell is within reach allows the client to request help if they feel lightheaded or need assistance.
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