Final answer:
The nurse consulted the healthcare provider about lovastatin due to elevated liver enzymes, which can be affected by this cholesterol-lowering medication. Lovastatin is part of the statins class of drugs, and liver monitoring is necessary due to potential liver damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse likely consulted the health care provider about a new order for lovastatin (Mevacor) due to elevated liver enzymes. Lovastatin is a member of the drug class known as statins, which are commonly used to treat high cholesterol. However, statins can have adverse effects on the liver, as they may increase liver enzyme levels, indicating potential liver damage or inflammation. Monitoring liver enzyme levels is an important aspect of the safety and management of statin therapy, and an increase may prompt a clinician to reassess the appropriateness of the medication.
If the patient has elevated liver enzymes, it may be unsafe to start or continue a medication like lovastatin that can potentially cause further liver damage. It's worth noting that the other options listed (blood glucose of 182 mg/dL, history of peptic ulcers, and history of high cholesterol) do not typically trigger concern directly associated with the initiation or continuation of lovastatin therapy.