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?
High density lipoprotein (HDL)
Low density lipoprotein (LDL).
Creatine phosphokinase (CK).
Prothrombin time (PT).
The Correct Answer is B
A. High density lipoprotein (HDL):
HDL levels are important for cardiovascular health as higher levels are associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease. However, atorvastatin primarily targets LDL levels. While increasing HDL is beneficial, it is not the primary measure of atorvastatin's effectiveness.
B. Low density lipoprotein (LDL):
Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower LDL cholesterol levels, which is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. A decrease in LDL levels indicates that the medication is having its desired effect, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
C. Creatine phosphokinase (CK):
CK levels are monitored to assess muscle damage or side effects related to statin use, such as rhabdomyolysis. While important for safety monitoring, changes in CK levels do not directly reflect the effectiveness of atorvastatin in managing cholesterol levels.
D. Prothrombin time (PT):
PT is used to evaluate blood clotting ability and is not directly related to the effectiveness of atorvastatin. It is more relevant for monitoring anticoagulant therapy rather than statin therapy for cholesterol management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hemoglobin level of 13.5 g/dL (135 g/L):
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is used to manage hyperkalemia, not to affect hemoglobin levels. While a hemoglobin level of 13.5 g/dL is within the normal range, it does not indicate the effectiveness of sodium polystyrene sulfonate.
B. Serum ammonia level of 30 μg/dL (17.62 μmol/dL):
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is not used to manage ammonia levels; it is used to lower elevated potassium levels. Thus, a serum ammonia level of 30 μg/dL does not reflect the effectiveness of the medication.
C. Serum potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L (3.8 mmol/L):
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is specifically used to treat hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). A serum potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range, indicating that the medication has effectively reduced elevated potassium levels.
D. Serum glucose level of 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L):
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate does not affect glucose levels. A glucose level of 120 mg/dL is slightly elevated but unrelated to the effectiveness of the potassium-lowering medication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Notify the healthcare provider of lethargy:
Cimetidine can cause side effects such as confusion and lethargy, especially in the elderly or those with renal impairment. Reporting these symptoms to the healthcare provider is important for proper management and potential adjustment of treatment.
B. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day:
This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the impact of smoking on peptic ulcer disease. Smoking can exacerbate ulcer symptoms and interfere with healing. The nurse should instruct the client to ideally quit smoking altogether rather than just reducing the amount.
C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction:
Cimetidine can cause sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. The client should be aware of this potential side effect and report any such issues to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
D. Take the medication an hour after antacids:
Cimetidine should not be taken simultaneously with antacids as this can interfere with its absorption. Taking cimetidine an hour after antacids is a correct approach to avoid interaction and ensure effective medication action.
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