Which client's laboratory value should the nurse review prior to administering the initial dose of a statin medication?
Serum liver enzymes.
Serum electrolytes.
Complete blood count.
Capillary blood glucose.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Serum liver enzymes: Statins are metabolized in the liver and can cause hepatotoxicity. Baseline liver enzyme levels, such as ALT and AST, should be reviewed before starting statin therapy to ensure the liver is functioning properly and to monitor for potential adverse effects.
B. Serum electrolytes: Electrolytes are important for overall health, but they are not specifically impacted by statin therapy. Reviewing electrolyte levels is not a priority before initiating statins unless other conditions warrant it.
C. Complete blood count: A complete blood count (CBC) provides valuable information about infection or anemia, but it is not directly related to the safety or monitoring of statin medications.
D. Capillary blood glucose: Statins have been associated with a slight risk of elevated blood glucose over long-term use, but an initial capillary blood glucose reading is not required prior to starting therapy. Liver function assessment is the priority.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Take the medication an hour after antacids: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine, so spacing them apart is a correct approach. This statement indicates appropriate understanding of medication timing and does not require further instruction.
B. Notify the healthcare provider (HCP) of lethargy: Cimetidine can cause central nervous system effects like confusion or lethargy, particularly in older adults or those with renal impairment. Reporting such symptoms is appropriate and reflects safe medication awareness.
C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction: Cimetidine has been associated with gynecomastia, decreased libido, and impotence in some cases. The client should be aware of and monitor for these potential effects.
D. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day: Smoking impairs ulcer healing and increases gastric acid secretion, which can counteract the effects of cimetidine. Reducing to a pack per day is still harmful; the client should be encouraged to stop smoking entirely, not just cut back.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Excessive bruising: While statins can rarely affect platelet function, leading to bruising, this is not commonly associated with elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels. Bruising is more indicative of coagulation issues rather than muscle injury.
B. Muscle tenderness: Elevated CK levels in a client taking atorvastatin suggest muscle injury, such as myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Muscle tenderness, pain, or weakness are hallmark symptoms of these conditions. Prompt assessment is crucial, as continued statin use in the presence of muscle damage can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure .
C. Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are nonspecific and can result from various causes. While they may occur in rhabdomyolysis, they are not primary indicators and should be considered in the broader clinical context.
D. Peripheral edema: Swelling in the extremities is not a typical sign of statin-induced muscle injury. It is more commonly associated with cardiac, renal, or hepatic conditions.
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