A nurse in a provider's office is reinforcing teaching about cigarette smoking with a client. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse include in the teaching?

d. Muscle pain.

Atorvastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. One of the potential adverse effects of atorvastatin is myopathy, a condition characterized by muscle pain, weakness, and tenderness. In severe cases, myopathy can progress to rhabdomyolysis, a potentially life-threatening condition in which muscle breakdown products are released into the bloodstream and can cause kidney damage.

Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to monitor for muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness and report these symptoms to the healthcare provider immediately. Hypoglycemia, palpitations, and daytime drowsiness are not commonly associated with atorvastatin use and would not require immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.

Choice A Reason:

Keeping legs in a dependent position (hanging down) is generally not recommended after vein stripping surgery, as it can increase swelling. Elevation of the leg is often recommended to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.

Choice B Reason:

Wrapping the leg with an elastic bandage is correct. When providing discharge teaching to a client who has undergone vein stripping of the right leg, the nurse should include instructions for post-operative care. Wrapping the leg with an elastic bandage is a common practice to help reduce swelling, provide support to the leg, and promote healing. Proper application of the bandage helps with compression and prevents complications like hematoma formation.

Choice C Reason:

Maintaining bed rest for 48 hours is not typically required after vein stripping surgery. Early ambulation and movement are encouraged to prevent blood clots and promote healing.

Choice D Reason:

Implementing a sodium-restricted diet is not directly related to post-operative care for vein stripping surgery. Dietary restrictions should be discussed with a healthcare provider, but they are not a routine part of post-operative instructions for this procedure.