A client with Parkinson's disease who is taking carbidopa/levodopa reports the urine appears to be darker in color. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Muscle tenderness is a sign of myopathy, a rare but serious adverse effect of atorvastatin and other statins. Myopathy is characterized by muscle weakness, pain, and elevated CK levels. CK is an enzyme that is released when muscle tissue is damaged. The nurse should monitor the client for muscle tenderness and report any changes to the prescriber.

Choice B reason: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of atorvastatin, but they are not related to CK levels. The nurse should advise the client to take the medication with food and fluids to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.

Choice C reason: Excessive bruising is not a typical side effect of atorvastatin, nor is it associated with CK levels. The nurse should assess the client for other possible causes of bleeding, such as coagulation disorders, trauma, or drug interactions.

Choice D reason: Peripheral edema is not a common side effect of atorvastatin, and it is not related to CK levels. The nurse should assess the client for other signs of fluid retention, such as weight gain, shortness of breath, or jugular venous distension. The nurse should also check the client's blood pressure and heart rate, as peripheral edema may indicate heart failure or hypertension.

Choice A reason: Measuring the client's urinary output is not the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. Although urinary output is an important indicator of renal function, it is not related to the color change of the urine. The nurse should monitor the client's fluid balance as part of the routine care, but it is not a priority.

Choice B reason: Explaining the color change is normal is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. Carbidopa/levodopa can cause the urine to become dark brown or black, which is a harmless side effect. The nurse should reassure the client that this is not a sign of a serious problem and does not affect the effectiveness of the medication.

Choice C reason: Obtaining a specimen for a urine culture is not the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. A urine culture is used to diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is characterized by symptoms such as dysuria, frequency, urgency, and hematuria. The color change of the urine due to carbidopa/levodopa is not indicative of a UTI. The nurse should obtain a urine culture only if the client has signs or symptoms of a UTI.

Choice D reason: Encouraging an increase in oral intake is not the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. Although adequate hydration is important for the client's health, it is not related to the color change of the urine. The nurse should encourage the client to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration, but it is not a priority.