The nurse is taking a health history on a 38-year-old man who is taking atorvastatin (Lipitor) for high cholesterol.
What will the nurse query specifically related to the safety of this drug?

Choice A rationale

Class I antiarrhythmic drugs block sodium channels, affecting phase 0 of the action potential, not phase 3.

Choice B rationale

Class IV antiarrhythmic drugs block calcium channels, which affects phase 2 of the action potential and slows heart rate and conduction.

Choice C rationale

Class III antiarrhythmic drugs block potassium channels, prolonging phase 3 of the action potential. This results in a prolonged repolarization period, reducing the risk of arrhythmia.

Choice D rationale

Class II antiarrhythmic drugs are beta-blockers that primarily affect phase 4 of the action potential, reducing heart rate and conduction, but they do not block potassium channels.

Choice A rationale

Asking the patient what time of day the medication is taken can help identify if taking it at a different time might alleviate sleep disturbances. SSRIs like sertraline can cause insomnia if taken later in the day.

Choice B rationale

Recommending a weekly dosage is inappropriate and could potentially disrupt the therapeutic effect. SSRIs should be taken daily, as prescribed.

Choice C rationale

Counseling the patient to take the medication at bedtime could worsen sleep disturbances, as sertraline may cause insomnia in some individuals. Timing should be adjusted based on patient response.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting a lower dose without consulting the provider may not address the issue effectively and could reduce the efficacy of the medication. Dosage adjustments should be made based on clinical assessment and provider recommendation.