A client arrives to the healthcare setting and is currently taking atorvastatin daily. Which assessment finding associated with atorvastatin (Lipitor) would need immediate reporting to the healthcare provider?
migraine headache
bradycardia
dark-red urine
elevated HDL cholesterol
The Correct Answer is C
A) Migraine headache: While migraines can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are not a known serious side effect of atorvastatin. Clients may experience headaches, but this symptom does not typically require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning signs.
B) Bradycardia: Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a common side effect of atorvastatin. While monitoring heart rate is important, bradycardia alone does not necessitate immediate reporting unless it leads to significant symptoms or complications.
C) Dark-red urine: Dark-red urine is a concerning finding that could indicate serious conditions, such as hematuria or rhabdomyolysis, particularly when associated with statin use. This symptom requires immediate reporting to the healthcare provider, as it may signify potential muscle breakdown or kidney issues, which are serious complications of atorvastatin therapy.
D) Elevated HDL cholesterol: Increased levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are generally considered beneficial and a positive outcome of treatment. Therefore, this finding would not necessitate immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Platelet counts: Monitoring platelet counts is not necessary with atorvastatin therapy. While certain medications may affect platelet levels, atorvastatin primarily targets lipid levels and does not have a significant impact on platelet function.
B) Lung function test: Lung function tests are not relevant for atorvastatin use. These tests are typically utilized for assessing respiratory conditions and are not part of the routine monitoring for cholesterol-lowering medications.
C) Liver function test: Atorvastatin can affect liver function, so it is essential to monitor liver
enzymes (such as AST and ALT) regularly. Routine liver function tests help identify any potential hepatotoxicity early, allowing for timely intervention if liver function declines.
D) Bun and creatinine levels: While monitoring renal function can be important in some contexts, it is not a routine requirement specifically for atorvastatin. However, it may be necessary in certain patient populations or if there are concerns about kidney function, but liver function tests are the primary focus with this medication.
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
A) Aspirin: While aspirin is an antiplatelet medication that can help prevent further clot formation, it does not have thrombolytic properties and does not directly lyse existing clots. Therefore, it is not appropriate for this purpose.
B) Heparin: Heparin is an anticoagulant used to prevent the extension of existing clots and reduce the risk of new clots forming, but it does not dissolve existing clots. It helps manage deep vein thrombosis but does not have thrombolytic activity.
C) Warfarin (Coumadin): Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant that is used to prevent new clot formation and the growth of existing clots. However, like heparin, it does not actively lyse or dissolve existing clots.
D) Alteplase (Activase): This medication is a thrombolytic agent that actively dissolves blood clots by activating plasminogen to plasmin, leading to clot breakdown. It is appropriate for use in cases of deep vein thrombosis when clot lysis is indicated.
E) Anistreplase (Eminase): Similar to alteplase, anistreplase is another thrombolytic agent used to lyse existing clots. It acts by converting plasminogen to plasmin, effectively breaking down fibrin in clots, making it suitable for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis.