Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is taking atorvastatin. The nurse should identify that a change in which of the following laboratory values indicates an adverse effect of the medication? A) Serum creatinine B) Hemoglobin C) Liver enzymes (AST and ALT) D) Serum sodium E) Serum potassium

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

C) Liver enzymes (AST and ALT)

When reviewing the laboratory values of a client taking atorvastatin, a change in liver enzymes (AST and ALT) would indicate a potential adverse effect of the medication. Atorvastatin belongs to a class of medications called statins, which are known to have the potential to cause liver damage or hepatotoxicity. Elevated levels of liver enzymes, specifically AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase), can indicate liver dysfunction or injury. Monitoring these liver enzymes is essential to detect any adverse effects of atorvastatin on the liver. Serum creatinine, hemoglobin, serum sodium, and serum potassium levels are not directly associated with the adverse effects of atorvastatin. However, they may be monitored for overall assessment of the client's renal function, anemia, electrolyte balance, or other health conditions.