A nurse is educating a patient who has been prescribed Atorvastatin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the patient teaching?
"You should see benefits within days of starting your atorvastatin."
"You may consume grapefruit juice freely while on this medication."
"Report any muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness to your healthcare provider immediately."
"You can use an NSAID prior to taking your atorvastatin to prevent flushing."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "You should see benefits within days of starting your atorvastatin.": Atorvastatin works by lowering LDL cholesterol, but measurable improvements in lipid levels typically take several weeks. Immediate effects are unlikely, and full benefits depend on adherence and time.
B. "You may consume grapefruit juice freely while on this medication.": Grapefruit juice inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes in the liver and intestines, which can lead to increased levels of atorvastatin in the blood. This raises the risk of adverse effects, particularly muscle toxicity.
C. "Report any muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness to your healthcare provider immediately.": These symptoms may indicate myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, a rare but serious adverse effect of statins. Early reporting allows for prompt evaluation and potential discontinuation of the drug to prevent complications.
D. "You can use an NSAID prior to taking your atorvastatin to prevent flushing.": Flushing is not a common side effect of atorvastatin; this teaching applies to niacin, not statins. Using NSAIDs prophylactically for atorvastatin is unnecessary and not clinically indicated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cushing's syndrome: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome. Common features include weight gain (especially central), mood changes such as anxiety or irritability, insomnia, and physical changes like hirsutism (increased facial hair), moon face, and truncal obesity due to chronic hypercortisolism.
B. Adrenal insufficiency: This condition typically results from abrupt withdrawal of corticosteroids, leading to fatigue, hypotension, and electrolyte imbalances. It does not cause the excess cortisol-related symptoms described in this patient’s presentation.
C. Diabetes mellitus: While corticosteroids can raise blood glucose levels and increase the risk for diabetes, the described symptoms—particularly the weight distribution and hirsutism—are more indicative of Cushing’s syndrome than diabetes.
D. Dystonia: Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It is not associated with the metabolic and hormonal effects caused by long-term corticosteroid use.
Correct Answer is ["150"]
Explanation
Total volume to be infused = 1200 mL
Total infusion time = 8 hours
- Calculate the flow rate in mL per hour (mL/hr):
Flow rate (mL/hr) = Total volume (mL) / Total infusion time (hours)
= 1200 mL / 8 hours
= 150 mL/hr
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