An increase in which serum lab value indicates to the nurse that a prescription for atorvastatin is having the desired effect for a client at risk for coronary artery disease?
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
Prothrombin time (PT).
Creatine phosphokinase (CK)
High-density lipoprotein (HDL).
The Correct Answer is D
A. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Atorvastatin's primary effect is to decrease LDL cholesterol levels. A decrease in LDL levels would indicate the medication is working as intended, not an increase.
B. Prothrombin time (PT): PT is a measure of blood clotting, which is not directly affected by atorvastatin. This value is more relevant for monitoring anticoagulant therapy.
C. Creatine phosphokinase (CK): CK levels can be used to monitor for muscle damage or side effects related to statin use. An increase in CK levels would suggest muscle damage, not the effectiveness of the statin.
D. High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is a key target in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). While the primary goal of atorvastatin is to lower LDL cholesterol, an increase in HDL cholesterol (often termed "good" cholesterol) is also desirable as it can help reduce the risk of CAD. Therefore, an increase in HDL is a positive indicator that the medication is having a beneficial effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Chronotropic effect: This term refers to changes in heart rate. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists like valsartan primarily affect blood pressure and vascular tone, rather than directly altering heart rate.
B) Diuresis: Diuresis involves increased urine production. Although some antihypertensives can have a diuretic effect, valsartan primarily works through mechanisms other than increasing urine output.
C) Vasodilation: Angiotensin II receptor antagonists such as valsartan work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, which leads to vasodilation. This reduction in vascular resistance helps to lower blood pressure and is the primary therapeutic effect of valsartan.
D) Sympatholytic action: This refers to the suppression of sympathetic nervous system activity. Valsartan does not primarily act through sympathetic nervous system modulation but rather through direct vasodilation by blocking angiotensin II receptors.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Administer an oral analgesic and evaluate its effectiveness before applying the new patch: This action is unnecessary because the client reports no pain. Administering an oral analgesic would not be appropriate when the client denies pain and the previous fentanyl patch is intact.
B) Apply the new patch in a different location after removing the original patch: This is the correct action. Fentanyl patches should be replaced with new ones in a different location to prevent overdosing and ensure proper absorption. The old patch should be removed to avoid accumulation of excess medication.
C) Remove the patch and consult with the healthcare provider about the client's pain resolution: There is no need to consult the healthcare provider or remove the patch if the client denies pain and the patch is intact. The issue is with replacing the patch rather than evaluating pain.
D) Place the patch on the client's shoulder and leave both patches in place for 12 hours: This is unsafe. Applying a new patch without removing the old one can lead to overdose due to excessive fentanyl. The old patch must be removed before placing a new one.
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