A nurse is assessing a client who has hypercholesterolemia and is receiving simvastatin. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a potential adverse effect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Orthostatic hypotension: Simvastatin does not typically affect blood pressure or cause orthostatic changes. Monitoring for hypotension is not a priority with this medication, as its mechanism focuses on lipid metabolism rather than vascular tone. B. Blurred vision: Visual disturbances are not commonly associated with simvastatin use. While any new symptoms should be assessed, blurred vision is unlikely to be a direct adverse effect of statin therapy. C. Urinary retention: Simvastatin does not affect bladder function or urinary output. Urinary retention is not a recognized complication and would warrant evaluation for other underlying causes. D. Muscle weakness: Muscle pain or weakness (myopathy) is a known adverse effect of simvastatin. It can range from mild discomfort to severe rhabdomyolysis. Monitoring for muscle symptoms is essential to prevent serious complications and ensure medication safety.