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 C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Taking the medications at least 12 hours apart does not address the interaction between erythromycin and oral contraceptives. Erythromycin can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives by increasing the metabolism of the hormones in the contraceptive, leading to a higher risk of unintended pregnancy. Therefore, simply spacing out the medications will not mitigate this risk.
Choice B Reason:
Stopping the oral contraceptive immediately is not advisable without consulting a healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuing the contraceptive can lead to hormonal imbalances and unintended pregnancy. The primary concern with erythromycin is its potential to reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive, not that it necessitates stopping the contraceptive altogether.
Choice C Reason:
Using an additional form of contraception is the most appropriate advice. Erythromycin can interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so using a backup method, such as condoms, is recommended to prevent unintended pregnancy. This ensures that the client remains protected while taking both medications.
Choice D Reason:
Avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight is not relevant to the interaction between erythromycin and oral contraceptives. While some medications can increase photosensitivity, this is not a primary concern with erythromycin in the context of contraceptive use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Rinsing the mouth with water after using an inhaler, especially one containing corticosteroids, is crucial to prevent oral thrush (a fungal infection) and reduce irritation in the mouth and throat. This practice helps maintain oral hygiene and ensures the medication does not linger in the mouth, which can cause side effects.
Choice B reason:
Using the inhaler during meals to mask the taste of the medication is not recommended. Inhalers should be used as prescribed, and the technique should not be altered to mask the taste. Proper inhaler technique is essential for the medication to reach the lungs effectively.
Choice C reason:
Limiting caffeinated beverages to two cups per day is generally good advice for overall health, but it is not directly related to the use of an inhaler. Caffeine can sometimes exacerbate symptoms of asthma or other respiratory conditions, but this is not a primary instruction for inhaler use.
Choice D reason:
Using the inhaler before bed at night may be part of a prescribed regimen, but it is not a general instruction that indicates understanding of inhaler use. The timing of inhaler use should follow the healthcare provider’s instructions, which may vary depending on the medication and the individual’s condition.
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