a client with a history of coronary artery disease is prescribed atorvastatin lipitor what side effect should the nurse instruct the client to immedia
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

LPN Pharmacology Practice Questions

1. A client with a history of coronary artery disease is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor). What side effect should the nurse instruct the client to immediately report?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Muscle pain or tenderness.' This can be a sign of rhabdomyolysis, a serious side effect of statins like atorvastatin (Lipitor). Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which muscle breakdown releases a protein that can damage the kidneys. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to report any muscle pain or tenderness immediately to prevent further complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not typically associated with atorvastatin (Lipitor) use or indicative of a serious adverse effect that requires immediate reporting.

2. When teaching a client who has a new prescription for metformin, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting metformin is to increase fluid intake. This is crucial to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort, a common side effect of metformin. Adequate hydration helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset and ensures the medication is well-tolerated. Option A is generally true for metformin but is not as essential as maintaining proper hydration. Option B is important but not directly related to starting metformin. Option D is incorrect as a metallic taste in the mouth is not typically associated with metformin.

3. Which laboratory test should be monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy in a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the laboratory test monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, particularly with heparin. It measures the time it takes for blood to clot, and monitoring aPTT helps ensure the therapeutic range is maintained to prevent clot formation and excessive bleeding. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a complete blood count (CBC) assesses overall health, serum electrolytes evaluate the body's electrolyte balance, and liver function tests assess liver health, none of which directly evaluate the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy for DVT.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who has been taking phenytoin for epilepsy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Gingival hyperplasia. Phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia, an overgrowth of gum tissue, which can lead to oral health issues and requires dental care. Choices A, C, and D are not directly associated with phenytoin use. Weight loss, increased thirst, and frequent urination are not typically reported findings related to phenytoin and should not be prioritized over gingival hyperplasia when assessing a client taking this medication.

5. Prior to a dipyridamole thallium scan, what substance should the LPN/LVN ensure the client has not consumed?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Caffeine should be avoided before a dipyridamole thallium scan as it can interfere with the test results. Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect the heart rate and may lead to inaccurate findings during the scan. Fatty meals, excess sugar, and milk products do not specifically interfere with the dipyridamole thallium scan procedure. Therefore, it is essential for the LPN/LVN to check and ensure that the client has not consumed caffeine prior to the procedure to obtain accurate diagnostic results.

Similar Questions

During an assessment, a client taking valproic acid exhibits elevated liver enzymes. What finding should the nurse report to the provider?
A client with known coronary artery disease (CAD) begins to experience chest pain while getting out of bed. What action should the nurse take?
A client diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD) reports chest pain radiating to the left arm. The nurse checks the client's blood pressure and administers nitroglycerin 0.4 mg sublingually. Five minutes later, the client is still experiencing chest pain. What is the next appropriate nursing action?
A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is prescribed theophylline. The nurse should monitor the client for which sign of theophylline toxicity?
The client is reinforcing teaching for peripheral artery disease (PAD). Which statement by the client indicates correct understanding?

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