A patient who has recently started taking simvastatin (Zocor) reports several symptoms to the nurse. Which assessment finding is most important to communicate to the health care provider?
Decrease in LDL cholesterol from last visit.
Generalized muscle aches.
Nausea when taking the medication on an empty stomach
Clear, light yellow urine output
The Correct Answer is B
A. A decrease in LDL cholesterol is a desired effect of simvastatin and does not indicate a problem.
B. Generalized muscle aches are a significant concern for patients on statin medications, such as simvastatin. This can be indicative of a serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis, a condition where muscle tissue breaks down and can lead to kidney damage. This should be communicated to the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and possible discontinuation of the medication.
C. Nausea when taking the medication on an empty stomach is a common side effect and may be addressed with guidance on when to take the medication.
D. Clear, light yellow urine is normal and does not require further action.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hydralazine is a vasodilator, but it does not have the same mechanism of action as ACE inhibitors or ARBs and would not be an appropriate substitute.
B. An antiplatelet medication is not appropriate for addressing a cough and is typically used for cardiovascular conditions like preventing blood clots.
C. ARBs, such as losartan, are a class of medications that work similarly to ACE inhibitors by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, but they do not cause the common side effect of a dry, hacking cough, which is seen with ACE inhibitors. This makes ARBs a good alternative for patients who experience this side effect.
D. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator used in acute conditions like chest pain, not for managing hypertension or a cough related to ACE inhibitors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Taking another nitroglycerin tablet without medical supervision is inappropriate and can lead to unsafe drops in blood pressure. This situation requires immediate evaluation by emergency services.
B. Advising the client to come to the office is not appropriate because the client needs immediate emergency care, which cannot be provided in a typical provider’s office.
C. Nitroglycerin is typically used to relieve chest pain from angina, but if the pain persists after taking it, this may indicate a myocardial infarction (MI). The client should call 911 immediately for emergency medical care as chest pain not relieved by nitroglycerin is a critical sign.
D. Antacids are not appropriate for chest pain associated with possible MI, as this pain is not due to acid reflux. Immediate medical intervention is necessary.
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