Which client's laboratory value should the nurse review prior to administering the initial dose of a statin medication?
Serum liver enzymes.
Serum electrolytes.
Complete blood count.
Capillary blood glucose.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Serum liver enzymes: Statins are metabolized in the liver and can cause hepatotoxicity. Baseline liver enzyme levels, such as ALT and AST, should be reviewed before starting statin therapy to ensure the liver is functioning properly and to monitor for potential adverse effects.
B. Serum electrolytes: Electrolytes are important for overall health, but they are not specifically impacted by statin therapy. Reviewing electrolyte levels is not a priority before initiating statins unless other conditions warrant it.
C. Complete blood count: A complete blood count (CBC) provides valuable information about infection or anemia, but it is not directly related to the safety or monitoring of statin medications.
D. Capillary blood glucose: Statins have been associated with a slight risk of elevated blood glucose over long-term use, but an initial capillary blood glucose reading is not required prior to starting therapy. Liver function assessment is the priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Take the medication an hour after antacids: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine, so spacing them apart is a correct approach. This statement indicates appropriate understanding of medication timing and does not require further instruction.
B. Notify the healthcare provider (HCP) of lethargy: Cimetidine can cause central nervous system effects like confusion or lethargy, particularly in older adults or those with renal impairment. Reporting such symptoms is appropriate and reflects safe medication awareness.
C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction: Cimetidine has been associated with gynecomastia, decreased libido, and impotence in some cases. The client should be aware of and monitor for these potential effects.
D. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day: Smoking impairs ulcer healing and increases gastric acid secretion, which can counteract the effects of cimetidine. Reducing to a pack per day is still harmful; the client should be encouraged to stop smoking entirely, not just cut back.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Avoid driving or operating machinery: Drowsiness and dizziness can occur with atenolol, especially when initiating therapy, but these effects are usually mild. While it's reasonable to use caution initially, this is not the most critical teaching point compared to orthostatic safety.
B. Take a missed dose as soon as possible: Although this may seem helpful, patients should not double doses or take extra doses close together. If a significant amount of time has passed, the missed dose may need to be skipped to prevent bradycardia or hypotension.
C. Standing slowly when getting up from bed: Atenolol, a beta-blocker, can cause orthostatic hypotension, especially in older adults. Teaching the client to rise slowly helps reduce the risk of dizziness and falls, making this a high-priority safety instruction following discharge.
D. Avoid intake of alcoholic beverages: Alcohol may enhance the hypotensive effects of beta-blockers, but moderate consumption is not strictly contraindicated. This advice is relevant but less urgent than preventing injury from orthostatic hypotension.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
