The nurse evaluates a client's response to the prescribed atorvastatin. Which finding indicates an expected outcome?
Total cholesterol 198 mg/dL
Low density lipoprotein (LDL) 90 mg/dL
Serum albumin 6 g/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 25 units/L
The Correct Answer is B
A) Total cholesterol 198 mg/dL: While this value is within normal limits, it does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of atorvastatin treatment, which primarily aims to lower LDL levels. An optimal outcome would focus more on the LDL reduction rather than total cholesterol alone.
B) Low density lipoprotein (LDL) 90 mg/dL: This finding indicates an expected outcome of atorvastatin therapy. Atorvastatin is effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, which is a key target in managing hyperlipidemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. An LDL level below 100 mg/dL is generally considered optimal.
C) Serum albumin 6 g/L: This value is low and indicates potential malnutrition or liver dysfunction, which are not expected outcomes for a client on atorvastatin. A normal serum albumin level typically ranges from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL, so this finding is concerning.
D) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 25 units/L: While this ALT level is within the normal range, it does not directly reflect the primary goal of atorvastatin therapy, which is to lower LDL cholesterol. Monitoring liver enzymes is important, but the expected outcome would be more clearly indicated by improved lipid profiles, particularly LDL levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Pedal pulses are +1 bilaterally: While this may indicate decreased perfusion, it is not an immediate concern that typically requires reporting before a cardiac angiogram. This finding should be monitored but does not usually contraindicate the procedure.
B) Client has multiple food allergies: This information is critical to report prior to the procedure, especially if any of the allergies pertain to medications or contrast agents used during the angiogram. Knowing about allergies can help prevent potential allergic reactions during the procedure.
C) Admission blood pressure is 110/70: This blood pressure reading is within an acceptable range for most patients. While the healthcare provider should be aware of baseline vitals, this alone does not necessitate immediate reporting.
D) Client is slightly anxious: While anxiety is important to acknowledge and may require intervention, it is common for clients undergoing procedures. This does not typically need to be reported urgently to the healthcare provider prior to the angiogram.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Withhold the dose and reassess the blood pressure in 30 minutes: Given that the client's blood pressure is 90/60, which indicates hypotension, withholding the furosemide is the safest initial action. Administering a diuretic in the context of low blood pressure could exacerbate the hypotensive state, potentially leading to further complications. It is prudent to reassess the blood pressure before proceeding with the medication.
B) Administer the medication and notify the healthcare provider of the blood pressure: Administering furosemide despite the hypotensive reading may pose significant risks to the client. While notifying the healthcare provider is important, the immediate priority should be to ensure the client's safety by withholding the medication until the blood pressure can be reassessed.
C) Administer the dose and continue to monitor the vital signs: This approach is not advisable due to the low blood pressure. Administering the medication without addressing the hypotension could lead to a further drop in blood pressure and increase the risk of adverse effects such as dizziness or syncope.
D) Call the healthcare provider to obtain an order for oral furosemide: While oral furosemide may be a reasonable alternative, the priority is to manage the client's current hypotensive state. The immediate action should focus on reassessing the blood pressure and ensuring the client is stable before considering alternative routes of medication administration.
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