A nurse is assessing a client who has been taking simvastatin to treat hyperlipidemia. Which statement made by the client describes an adverse effect of the medication that should be reported to the provider immediately?

"I've had gas pains for the last day."

"I've had a headache for a couple of days."

"I have occasional constipation."

"My legs feel weak, and I get pain in my calves."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A Reason:

Gas pains, while uncomfortable, are not typically a serious adverse effect of simvastatin and do not usually require immediate medical attention unless they are severe or persistent.

Choice B Reason:

Headaches are a common side effect of many medications, including simvastatin, and are not generally considered an emergency. However, if the headache is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Choice C Reason:

Occasional constipation is another common side effect and is not usually a cause for immediate concern unless it becomes severe or chronic.

Choice D Reason:

Muscle weakness and pain, especially in the calves, can be a sign of a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which is a rare but serious adverse effect of statins like simvastatin. This condition involves the breakdown of muscle tissue and can lead to kidney damage. It should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Abdominal distention is a common finding in large bowel obstruction due to the accumulation of intestinal contents, gas, and fluid proximal to the obstruction site. This can lead to a visibly swollen abdomen and is often accompanied by discomfort or pain.

Choice B Reason:
Hypoactive bowel sounds are expected in large bowel obstruction as the peristaltic activity decreases below the point of obstruction. Initially, bowel sounds may be high-pitched or tinkling due to the intestine's attempt to move contents past the obstruction, but as the condition progresses, the sounds become less frequent or even absent.

Choice C Reason:
Diarrhea is not typically associated with large bowel obstruction. In fact, constipation or cessation of stool is a more common symptom. If diarrhea occurs, it may be due to a partial obstruction or the presence of liquid stool that can pass around the blockage.

Choice D Reason:
Fever may indicate a complication of large bowel obstruction, such as ischemia or perforation, leading to infection and inflammation. However, fever is not a primary symptom of uncomplicated large bowel obstruction and should prompt immediate further investigation.

A. Assist the client to turn, having them grasp the side rails. B. Maintain strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively. C. Assess the client's pain level and administer pain medication as needed. D. Place the client in the prone position.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Assisting the client to turn by having them grasp the side rails is not recommended immediately following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. This action could place undue stress on the surgical site and potentially disrupt the healing process. Postoperative care typically involves minimizing movement of the spine to prevent complications.

Choice B reason:

Maintaining strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively is not a current standard of care following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Early ambulation, as tolerated, is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Choice C reason:

Assessing the client's pain level and administering pain medication as needed is a critical nursing intervention postoperatively. Effective pain management is essential for promoting patient comfort, facilitating early mobilization, and preventing complications. Pain assessment and management should be tailored to the individual's needs and carried out with regular monitoring.

Choice D reason:

Placing the client in the prone position is not typically advised following a laminectomy and spinal fusion, as it may put pressure on the surgical site and cause discomfort. The preferred position is usually on the back or occasionally on the side with proper support, depending on the surgeon's protocol and the client's comfort.

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A nurse is assessing a client who has been taking simvastatin to treat hyperlipidemia. Which statement made by the client describes an adverse effect of the medication that should be reported to the provider immediately?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is diagnosed with a large bowel obstruction. Which assessment findings by the nurse would be expected?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has arrived in the postoperative unit following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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