A client who is receiving a statin medication reports the onset of muscle soreness and fatigue, and the practical nurse (PN) notes that the client's skin is warm to the touch. Which action by the PN takes priority?

The correct answer is choice C. Report the findings to the charge nurse. Choice A rationale: Encouraging the client to drink fluids is not the priority in this situation. While hydration is important, the client's symptoms of muscle soreness, fatigue, and warm skin might indicate a potential adverse reaction to the statin medication, which requires immediate attention. Choice B rationale: Monitoring the client's serum lipid levels is not the priority at this moment. The client's current symptoms suggest a possible adverse reaction to the statin medication, and waiting for lipid level results may delay necessary interventions. Choice C rationale: Reporting the findings to the charge nurse is the priority action. The client's symptoms could be signs of rhabdomyolysis, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition where muscle breakdown releases toxic substances into the bloodstream. The charge nurse needs to be informed promptly so that appropriate interventions can be initiated. Choice D rationale: Administering a PRN dose of acetaminophen is not the priority in this situation. Acetaminophen may help with pain relief, but it will not address the potential underlying issue of muscle soreness and fatigue related to the statin medication.