A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for lovastatin. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse instruct the client to complete before starting the medication?

Potassium level.

Hemoglobin level.

Kidney function tests.

Liver function tests.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale:
(Potassium level) Lovastatin is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. While potassium levels are important to monitor for certain conditions, they are not directly related to the initiation of lovastatin therapy. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for diagnostic testing before starting the medication.
Choice B rationale:
(Hemoglobin level) Hemoglobin levels are important to assess for anemia or other blood disorders. However, they are not specifically required before starting lovastatin therapy. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for diagnostic testing before starting the medication.
Choice C rationale:
(Kidney function tests) While kidney function tests are essential for many medications to ensure proper excretion and avoid toxicity, they are not directly related to the initiation of lovastatin therapy. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for diagnostic testing before starting the medication.
Choice D rationale:
(Liver function tests) Liver function tests are crucial before starting lovastatin therapy. Lovastatin is metabolized in the liver, and it can potentially cause liver damage or abnormalities in liver enzymes. Monitoring liver function helps detect any pre-existing liver conditions and ensures the safe use of the medication. Therefore, this is the correct choice for diagnostic testing before starting the medication.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

The client's ABG values show a pH of 7.48, PCO2 of 30 mm Hg, HCO3 of 24 mEq/L, and PaO2 of 85 mm Hg. The elevated pH and decreased PCO2 (respiratory component) suggest respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive ventilation, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and subsequent alkalosis.

Choice B rationale:

Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated PCO2 and decreased pH. In this case, the client's PCO2 is decreased, indicating respiratory alkalosis rather than respiratory acidosis.

Choice C rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated HCO3 (bicarbonate) level and an increased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, making metabolic alkalosis an incorrect identification.

Choice D rationale:

Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased HCO3 level and a decreased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, ruling out metabolic acidosis as the acid-base imbalance in this case.

A. Poor skin turgor. B. Fruity breath odor. C. Kussmaul respirations. D. Irritability.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Poor skin turgor is a sign of dehydration and is not specifically related to hypoglycemia. It is assessed by pinching the skin on the back of the hand and observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.
Choice B rationale:
Fruity breath odor is associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of uncontrolled diabetes, not hypoglycemia. It is caused by the presence of ketones in the breath due to the breakdown of fats for energy in the absence of adequate insulin.
Choice C rationale:
Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored breathing patterns seen in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), not in hypoglycemia. They are the body's attempt to blow off excess carbon dioxide and acid from the blood.
Choice D rationale:
Irritability is a common manifestation of hypoglycemia. Low blood glucose levels can affect brain function, leading to mood changes, irritability, and nervousness.

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A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for lovastatin. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse instruct the client to complete before starting the medication?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing anxiety as well as numbness and tingling of the lips and fingers. The client's ABGs are pH 7.48, PCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaO2 85 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify that the client is experiencing?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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