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    Care Hope College RN HESI Pharmacology Proctored Exam

    A client taking atorvastatin has an increased serum creatine phosphokinase (CK) level. What should the nurse assess the client for?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A rationaleExcessive bruising is not a typical side effect of atorvastatin, and it is not linked to increased CK levels. Excessive bruising can be caused by bleeding disorders, anticoagulant therapy, or trauma.Choice B rationalePeripheral edema is not a common side effect of atorvastatin, and it is not related to increased CK levels. CK is an enzyme that is released when muscle tissue is damaged. Peripheral edema is more likely to be caused by heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency.Choice C rationaleMuscle tenderness is a sign of myopathy, which is a rare but serious adverse effect of atorvastatin. Myopathy is a condition where muscle fibers are damaged and inflamed, leading to muscle weakness and pain. Increased CK levels indicate muscle injury and can be a marker of myopathy. The nurse should monitor the client for muscle symptoms and report them to the prescriber.Choice D rationaleNausea and vomiting are common gastrointestinal side effects of atorvastatin, but they are not associated with increased CK levels. Nausea and vomiting can be managed by taking the medication with food or reducing the dose.

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