Which data indicates to the nurse that the client's current dose of simvastatin has been effective?

Choice A reason: Tinnitus is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin, a drug that strengthens the contraction of the heart and regulates the heart rhythm. ¹ Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that can be caused by many factors, such as ear infections, loud noises, or medications. ² However, digoxin is not known to cause tinnitus, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.

Choice B reason: Constipation is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not affect the bowel function, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider. Constipation can be caused by many factors, such as dehydration, lack of fiber, or medications. ³ The client should drink plenty of fluids, eat high-fiber foods, and exercise regularly to prevent or relieve constipation.

Choice C reason: Visual disturbances are a common and serious side effect of digoxin, and they are a reason to call the healthcare provider. Digoxin can cause changes in vision, such as blurred vision, yellow or green halos around objects, or seeing spots or flashes. ¹ These are signs of digoxin toxicity, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the level of digoxin in the blood is too high. The client should report any visual disturbances to the healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Choice D reason: Vertigo is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or losing balance that can be caused by many factors, such as inner ear problems, head injuries, or medications. However, digoxin is not known to cause vertigo, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.

Choice A reason: This is not an alarming statement. Feeling a little anxious when experiencing chest discomfort is a normal and understandable reaction. Chest discomfort can be a sign of angina, which is a condition where the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen due to reduced blood flow. Angina can cause pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, and can be triggered by physical or emotional stress. The client should try to relax and take their medication as prescribed to relieve the discomfort.

Choice B reason: This is not an alarming statement. Knowing that they should carry their medication with them in case they develop chest pain is a sign of good self-care and awareness. The client should have a quick-relief medication, such as nitroglycerin, that can dilate the coronary arteries and improve the blood flow to the heart. The client should take the medication as soon as they feel chest pain and follow the instructions on how to use it.

Choice C reason: This is not an alarming statement. Learning to cook using the "good" cooking oils is a sign of positive lifestyle change and adaptation. The client should avoid or limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, which can raise the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is also known as the "bad" cholesterol because it can deposit on the walls of the arteries and cause atherosclerosis, which is the narrowing and hardening of the arteries. The client should use unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil, which can lower the LDL cholesterol and increase the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is also known as the "good" cholesterol because it can remove the excess cholesterol from the arteries and transport it to the liver.

Choice D reason: This is the alarming statement. Waiting about two hours after feeling chest discomfort to seek medical attention is a sign of denial and delay. Chest discomfort can be a symptom of a heart attack, which is a life-threatening emergency where the blood flow to the heart is blocked and the heart muscle begins to die. The client should seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes, or if it is accompanied by other signs, such as shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, or arm or jaw pain. The sooner the client receives treatment, the better the chance of survival and recovery.