The nurse is reviewing the client’s laboratory values. Which serum laboratory 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).
High-density lipoprotein (HDL).
Prothrombin time (PT).
Creatine phosphokinase (CK).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries and result in heart disease and stroke. Atorvastatin is a statin medication that works by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver, specifically targeting LDL cholesterol. Lowering LDL levels is a primary goal in managing and reducing the risk of coronary artery disease.
Choice B reason:
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. While atorvastatin can also help increase HDL levels, the primary indicator of its effectiveness in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease is the reduction in LDL levels.
Choice C reason:
Prothrombin time (PT) is a measure of how long it takes blood to clot. It is not directly related to the effectiveness of atorvastatin in managing cholesterol levels or reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. PT is more relevant in the context of anticoagulant therapy.
Choice D reason:
Creatine phosphokinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. Elevated CK levels can indicate muscle damage, which can be a side effect of statin therapy. However, CK levels are not used to measure the effectiveness of atorvastatin in lowering cholesterol or reducing the risk of coronary artery disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Photosensitivity is not a common side effect of gabapentin. While some medications can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight, gabapentin is not typically associated with this issue. Therefore, it is not a primary concern that needs to be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice B Reason:
Rapid weight gain is a significant side effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider. Gabapentin can cause fluid retention and swelling, which may lead to rapid weight gain. This can be a sign of more serious underlying issues, such as heart or kidney problems, and requires prompt medical attention.
Choice C Reason:
Gastric irritation, such as nausea or upset stomach, can occur with gabapentin use but is generally not severe. While it can be uncomfortable, it is usually manageable with supportive care and does not typically require immediate reporting to a healthcare provider unless it becomes severe or persistent.
Choice D Reason:
Sexual dysfunction is not commonly associated with gabapentin. While some medications can affect sexual function, gabapentin’s side effects are more commonly related to the nervous system, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and coordination issues. Therefore, this is not a primary concern that needs to be reported.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While monitoring temperature is important for overall health assessment, it is not the most critical vital sign to check first in the context of opioid-induced lethargy. Opioids primarily affect the respiratory system, and respiratory depression is a significant risk. Therefore, temperature is not the priority in this scenario.
Choice B Reason:
Respiratory rate is the most critical vital sign to check first. Opioids can cause respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. A decreased respiratory rate is a key indicator of opioid overdose or severe side effects. Monitoring the respiratory rate allows the nurse to assess the severity of the respiratory depression and take immediate action if necessary.
Choice C Reason:
Pulse rate is also an important vital sign, but it is secondary to respiratory rate in this context. While opioids can affect heart rate, the immediate concern with opioid-induced lethargy is respiratory depression. Therefore, checking the respiratory rate takes precedence over the pulse rate.
Choice D Reason:
Blood pressure is another vital sign that should be monitored, but it is not the first priority in this situation. Opioids can cause hypotension, but the primary and most immediate concern is respiratory depression. Therefore, the respiratory rate should be assessed first to ensure the client’s airway and breathing are adequate.
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