The nurse is reviewing the client's laboratory values. Which serum laboratory value indicates to the nurse that a prescription for atorvastatin is having the desired effect for a client at risk for coronary artery disease?
High density lipoprotein (HDL)
Low density lipoprotein (LDL).
Creatine phosphokinase (CK).
Prothrombin time (PT).
The Correct Answer is B
A. High density lipoprotein (HDL):
HDL levels are important for cardiovascular health as higher levels are associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease. However, atorvastatin primarily targets LDL levels. While increasing HDL is beneficial, it is not the primary measure of atorvastatin's effectiveness.
B. Low density lipoprotein (LDL):
Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower LDL cholesterol levels, which is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. A decrease in LDL levels indicates that the medication is having its desired effect, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
C. Creatine phosphokinase (CK):
CK levels are monitored to assess muscle damage or side effects related to statin use, such as rhabdomyolysis. While important for safety monitoring, changes in CK levels do not directly reflect the effectiveness of atorvastatin in managing cholesterol levels.
D. Prothrombin time (PT):
PT is used to evaluate blood clotting ability and is not directly related to the effectiveness of atorvastatin. It is more relevant for monitoring anticoagulant therapy rather than statin therapy for cholesterol management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Instruct the client that it is necessary to take nothing but water with the medication:
Risedronate, a bisphosphonate used for osteoporosis, should be taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Milk and other beverages can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
B. Withhold the medication until the client's breakfast tray is available on the unit:
This would delay the medication unnecessarily. Risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption.
C. Consult with a pharmacist about scheduling the dose one hour after the client eats:
This is not appropriate as risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure maximum absorption. Consulting a pharmacist in this context may lead to a misunderstanding of the medication's administration requirements.
D. Assign an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to bring the client a glass of low fat milk:
Offering milk with risedronate is inappropriate as it interferes with the medication’s absorption. The client should only take the medication with water.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Migraine headaches: While migraine headaches are significant for overall health management, they are less directly related to the risks associated with NSAID use compared to other conditions. Migraines do not typically influence the safety profile of NSAIDs.
B) Chronic alcoholism: Chronic alcoholism is a major concern because it significantly increases the risk of gastrointestinal complications with NSAID use. NSAIDs can cause gastric irritation, bleeding, and ulcers, and alcohol can exacerbate these risks, leading to severe gastrointestinal issues or liver damage.
C) Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a common indication for NSAID use and, therefore, does not pose an additional risk specific to the medication. NSAIDs are often prescribed to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
D) Type 2 diabetes mellitus: Although diabetes mellitus requires careful management, it does not directly increase the risk of NSAID-related complications. However, clients with diabetes need to be monitored for overall health and medication effects, but chronic alcoholism poses a more immediate risk for NSAID use.
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