A client presents to the healthcare setting after beginning treatment with an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Which of the following side- effects will the nurse be sure to assess for?
Dry, non-productive cough
Nausea and vomiting
Hypokalemia and vomiting
Epistaxis and headache
The Correct Answer is A
A) Dry, non-productive cough: One of the most common side effects associated with ACE inhibitors is a dry, non-productive cough. This occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a peptide that can increase in the body when ACE is inhibited. Nurses should assess for this symptom, as it may require changing the medication if it becomes bothersome to the client.
B) Nausea and vomiting: While nausea and vomiting can occur with various medications, they are not specific or common side effects of ACE inhibitors. If these symptoms do arise, they may be due to other factors and should be investigated further.
C) Hypokalemia and vomiting: ACE inhibitors are more commonly associated with hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) rather than hypokalemia. Monitoring potassium levels is important, but vomiting is not a typical side effect of ACE inhibitors.
D) Epistaxis and headache: Although headaches can occur with many medications, epistaxis (nosebleeds) is not a common side effect associated with ACE inhibitors. While headache assessment is appropriate, the dry cough is the more characteristic and important symptom to monitor in clients on these medications.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
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.