A patient has begun taking an HMG-COA reductase inhibitor (statins). Which statement about this class of drugs made by the nurse during patient education would be inappropriate?

Choice C reason: Limiting pancreatic secretion is the primary reason for making patients with acute pancreatitis NPO and using gastric suctioning. By reducing the stimulation of the pancreas, the inflammation and autodigestion of pancreatic tissue can be minimized, aiding in the healing process.
Choice A reason: Preventing abdominal distention is a secondary benefit of making patients NPO, but it is not the primary reason for this intervention in acute pancreatitis.
Choice B reason: Preventing mechanical obstruction of the intestine is not the main goal of making patients NPO in acute pancreatitis. This condition primarily affects the pancreas, not the intestines.
Choice D reason: Preventing hyperglycemia associated with loss of insulin secretion is not the primary reason for making patients NPO in acute pancreatitis. While hyperglycemia can occur in severe cases, the main focus is on reducing pancreatic stimulation.

Choice A reason:
While decreased cerebral blood flow can contribute to various neurological conditions, it is not the primary cause of hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic encephalopathy is primarily associated with liver dysfunction rather than cerebrovascular issues. Thus, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason:
Impaired ammonia metabolism is the primary cause of hepatic encephalopathy. When the liver is unable to adequately convert ammonia to urea due to chronic liver disease, ammonia accumulates in the bloodstream. This leads to toxic effects on the brain, resulting in the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, this choice accurately reflects the underlying pathophysiology of the condition.
Choice C reason:
Hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice are common in liver disease but are not the primary causes of hepatic encephalopathy. These conditions result from impaired bilirubin metabolism and do not directly lead to the neurological manifestations seen in hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D reason:
Fluid and electrolyte imbalances can occur with chronic liver disease but are not the primary cause of hepatic encephalopathy. While they may exacerbate the condition, the main issue is the accumulation of ammonia due to impaired liver function. Hence, this choice is incorrect.