The nurse is caring for a client who is taking atorvastatin to assist in lowering his LDL cholesterol. Which lab value must be routinely done with this medication to prevent complications?
Platelet counts
Lung function test
Liver function test
Bun and Creatine levels
The Correct Answer is C
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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Inhibits platelet aggregation: The primary benefit of aspirin following a myocardial infarction (MI) is its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation. By preventing platelets from clumping together, aspirin reduces the risk of further clot formation, which is critical in preventing additional cardiac events and improving overall cardiovascular outcomes.
B) Anti-inflammatory properties: While aspirin does have anti-inflammatory effects, this is not the primary reason it is prescribed after an MI. The focus in the post-MI setting is on its role in preventing clot formation rather than addressing inflammation.
C) Antiemetic: Aspirin is not an antiemetic and does not alleviate nausea or vomiting. Clients experiencing gastrointestinal issues or nausea would require different medications for those symptoms.
D) Anti-pyretic: Although aspirin can reduce fever, this effect is not the primary concern in the post-MI setting. The immediate goal is to improve heart health and prevent further thrombotic events, making platelet inhibition the most relevant benefit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "Acts on the beta cells within the heart and lungs to regulate cardiac rhythm.": This statement is incorrect because calcium channel blockers do not primarily act on beta cells. Instead, they block calcium channels in cardiac and smooth muscle, which affects heart contractility and conductivity.
B) "Increases heart rate and increases myocardial contractility.": Calcium channel blockers typically do the opposite; they decrease heart rate and myocardial contractility by inhibiting calcium entry into the heart muscle cells. Therefore, this statement does not accurately describe their mechanism of action.
C) "Reduces the contractility and conductivity of the heart.": This statement accurately reflects the action of calcium channel blockers. By blocking calcium entry, these medications decrease myocardial contractility and slow down electrical conduction through the heart, which can help manage dysrhythmias.
D) "Increase oxygen to the systemic circulation.": While calcium channel blockers can improve blood flow and reduce myocardial oxygen demand by decreasing heart workload, their primary action does not directly focus on increasing oxygen delivery to systemic circulation. Their primary role is in managing heart contractility and rhythm.