Which laboratory value should the nurse review prior to administering the initial dose of a statin medication?
Complete blood count.
Serum electrolytes.
Capillary blood glucose.
Serum liver enzymes.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: A complete blood count (CBC) is not typically required before starting statin therapy. While a CBC can provide valuable information about a patient’s overall health, it does not specifically relate to the potential side effects or necessary monitoring for statin use. Statins primarily affect the liver, so monitoring liver function is more critical.
Choice B reason: Serum electrolytes are important for assessing overall metabolic and kidney function, but they are not directly related to the initiation of statin therapy. Statins do not typically affect electrolyte levels, so this test is not necessary before starting the medication.
Choice C reason: Capillary blood glucose levels are important for monitoring diabetes and blood sugar control. While statins can have an impact on blood glucose levels, this is not the primary concern when initiating therapy. Monitoring liver function is more directly related to the potential side effects of statins.
Choice D reason: Serum liver enzymes are crucial to review before starting statin therapy. Statins can cause liver enzyme elevations, indicating liver damage or dysfunction. Therefore, baseline liver enzyme levels should be obtained to monitor for any potential hepatotoxicity during treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Phenazopyridine does not eliminate urinary bacteria. It is not an antibiotic and does not have antibacterial properties. Instead, it is used to relieve symptoms such as pain, burning, and discomfort caused by irritation of the urinary tract. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason:
Using phenazopyridine after voiding or after sexual intercourse is not a standard recommendation. This medication is typically taken after meals to reduce stomach upset. It is not specifically indicated for use after sexual intercourse, and this choice does not align with the typical usage instructions for phenazopyridine.
Choice C reason:
Phenazopyridine does not calm spasms in the urinary tract. Its primary function is to provide symptomatic relief from pain, burning, and discomfort in the urinary tract. It does not have antispasmodic properties, so this choice is also incorrect.
Choice D reason:
Phenazopyridine provides an analgesic effect for irritated bladder mucosa. It works by numbing the lining of the urinary tract, which helps to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions like cystitis. This is the correct therapeutic effect of the medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering potassium is not the primary action for treating digoxin toxicity. While hypokalemia can exacerbate digoxin toxicity, the initial step is to assess and stabilize the patient’s overall condition, including acid-base and electrolyte balance. Potassium administration may be considered if hypokalemia is present, but it is not the first-line treatment.
Choice B reason: Cardioversion is not typically used to treat digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity can cause various arrhythmias, but the treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient and addressing the toxicity itself2. Cardioversion may be considered in life-threatening arrhythmias, but it is not the primary intervention.
Choice C reason: Checking acid-base and electrolyte values is crucial in managing digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyperkalemia, which can be life-threatening. Assessing and correcting these imbalances is essential for stabilizing the patient and preventing further complications.
Choice D reason: Giving digoxin by another route to slow absorption is not an appropriate action. The primary treatment for digoxin toxicity involves stopping the medication and administering digoxin-specific antibody fragments (Fab) if necessary. These antibodies bind to digoxin, neutralizing its effects and allowing for its excretion.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.