Which laboratory value should the nurse review prior to administering the initial dose of a statin medication?
Complete blood count.
Serum electrolytes.
Capillary blood glucose.
Serum liver enzymes.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: A complete blood count (CBC) is not typically required before starting statin therapy. While a CBC can provide valuable information about a patient’s overall health, it does not specifically relate to the potential side effects or necessary monitoring for statin use. Statins primarily affect the liver, so monitoring liver function is more critical.
Choice B reason: Serum electrolytes are important for assessing overall metabolic and kidney function, but they are not directly related to the initiation of statin therapy. Statins do not typically affect electrolyte levels, so this test is not necessary before starting the medication.
Choice C reason: Capillary blood glucose levels are important for monitoring diabetes and blood sugar control. While statins can have an impact on blood glucose levels, this is not the primary concern when initiating therapy. Monitoring liver function is more directly related to the potential side effects of statins.
Choice D reason: Serum liver enzymes are crucial to review before starting statin therapy. Statins can cause liver enzyme elevations, indicating liver damage or dysfunction. Therefore, baseline liver enzyme levels should be obtained to monitor for any potential hepatotoxicity during treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["0.8"]
Explanation
Calculation Steps
Step 1: Identify the concentration of the medication in the syringe.
The syringe is labeled “Enoxaparin sodium injection, USP 60 mg/0.6 mL.”
Step 2: Calculate the amount of medication per mL.
60 mg ÷ 0.6 mL = 100 mg/mL
Result = 100 mg/mL
Step 3: Determine the prescribed dose.
The prescribed dose is 80 mg.
Step 4: Calculate the volume to administer.
80 mg ÷ 100 mg/mL = 0.8 mL
Result = 0.8 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 0.8 mL.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol, is not a primary concern when prescribing methylphenidate. While managing cholesterol levels is important for overall cardiovascular health, it does not directly interact with the administration of methylphenidate.
Choice B reason: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a critical condition to review before administering methylphenidate. Methylphenidate can increase blood pressure and heart rate, potentially exacerbating pre-existing hypertension. Monitoring and managing blood pressure is essential to prevent complications such as stroke or heart attack.
Choice C reason: Diabetes mellitus is important to manage, but it is not directly affected by methylphenidate. While some medications can influence blood sugar levels, methylphenidate primarily affects the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.
Choice D reason: Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, is not a primary concern with methylphenidate use. Although respiratory conditions should be managed appropriately, they do not typically interact with the effects of methylphenidate.
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