A patient with coronary artery disease asks the nurse about the good cholesterol laboratory values. The nurse knows that good cholesterol refers to which lipids?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: HDLs are commonly referred to as the "good cholesterol" because they help remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for excretion. High levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease. Monitoring HDL levels is important in assessing cardiovascular health. Triglycerides, LDLs, and VLDLs do not qualify as "good cholesterol" and are actually associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease when elevated.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be an early sign of aspirin toxicity. Aspirin poisoning can lead to salicylate toxicity, which can manifest with various symptoms including tinnitus, along with hyperventilation, nausea, vomiting, and metabolic acidosis. Monitoring for tinnitus is crucial as an early indicator of potential aspirin overdose in clients. Unsteady gait, drowsiness, and confusion are also symptoms of aspirin toxicity but typically develop after tinnitus in the progression of toxicity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Before administering Digoxin, it is crucial for the nurse to count the patient's apical pulse for 1 minute. Digoxin is a medication commonly prescribed to manage heart conditions such as heart failure and certain irregular heartbeats. Since Digoxin works by helping the heart beat stronger and at a more normal rhythm, it is essential to monitor the patient's heart rate before administering the medication. Counting the apical pulse for 1 minute allows for an accurate assessment of the patient's baseline heart rate, which is crucial in determining whether it is safe to administer Digoxin. If the heart rate is too low (bradycardia), administering Digoxin could potentially cause further complications. Therefore, assessing the apical pulse beforehand is a critical step in ensuring the safe administration of Digoxin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication commonly used to prevent blood clots. One of the most severe adverse effects of warfarin is the risk of bleeding. This can occur in various parts of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract, brain, or other organs. Bleeding complications can range from minor bruising to life-threatening hemorrhages, especially if warfarin levels are not properly monitored. Patients taking warfarin should be closely monitored for signs of bleeding, and their medication dosages should be adjusted as needed to maintain a balance between preventing clotting and avoiding excessive bleeding.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Insomnia is not a common side effect of Alprazolam. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Common side effects of Alprazolam include dizziness, drowsiness, and lethargy. However, it is not typically associated with causing insomnia as a side effect. If a person experiences unusual symptoms while taking Alprazolam, they should consult their healthcare provider for guidance.