The nurse is instructing an older adult client about atorvastatin (Lipitor) to treat elevated cholesterol. Which side effects should the nurse advise the client to report to the healthcare provider?

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Question 1 of 5

The nurse is instructing an older adult client about atorvastatin (Lipitor) to treat elevated cholesterol. Which side effects should the nurse advise the client to report to the healthcare provider?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a medication commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels. One of the serious side effects associated with atorvastatin use is muscle pain and weakness. This could be a sign of a rare but serious condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which is the breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney damage. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to report any muscle pain or weakness promptly to their healthcare provider to prevent any serious complications. Headaches and nausea are common side effects that may not require urgent attention. Bruising and excessive bleeding usually indicate a different issue, such as a bleeding disorder or anticoagulant medication effect. Shortness of breath and coughing are not typically associated with atorvastatin use and may suggest other health problems that require evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Question 2 of 5

The nurse is assessing a client being treated for congestive heart failure (CHF). Which physical findings would indicate that the client's condition is not improving? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Wheezing breath sounds in all lobes indicate airway obstruction or narrowing, which may be a sign of worsening heart failure leading to pulmonary congestion. Wheezing can be a result of fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema) due to inadequate pumping of the heart in CHF. Monitoring for respiratory symptoms such as wheezing is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of treatment for congestive heart failure. In this case, the presence of wheezing suggests that the client's condition is not improving and requires further evaluation and intervention.

Question 3 of 5

How would this blood pressure be categorized for this client?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Based on the blood pressure categories defined by the American Heart Association, hypertension is classified as having a systolic blood pressure (top number) of 130 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) of 80 mm Hg or higher. The client's blood pressure reading of 150/90 mm Hg falls within the range of hypertension, indicating elevated blood pressure levels that may require monitoring and/or intervention to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Question 4 of 5

A client is scheduled for temporary pacemaker insertion. What instruction will this client need prior to discharge?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client who is scheduled for temporary pacemaker insertion is to use battery-powered equipment. This is because temporary pacemakers are powered by an external power source, typically a battery pack worn by the client. Therefore, it is important for the client to be aware of this and ensure that they have access to the necessary battery-powered equipment at home for the pacemaker to function properly. The other options are not appropriate instructions for a client with a temporary pacemaker.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse caring is caring for a client who is recovering from a hysterectomy. Which clinical manifestation supports that the client is experiencing a pulmonary embolism (PE)?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow, which can be life-threatening. Common clinical manifestations of PE include sudden onset of dyspnea (difficulty breathing), chest pain (sharp, stabbing pain that may worsen with deep breaths), tachypnea (rapid breathing), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and possibly cough or hemoptysis (coughing up blood). In the context of a client recovering from a hysterectomy, it is crucial to recognize the signs of PE as early intervention is essential to prevent serious complications. Nausea, decreased urine output, and activity intolerance are not typical clinical manifestations of a pulmonary embolism and should not be the primary focus when suspecting a PE in this scenario.

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