Medical Surgical NCLEX RN Related

Review Medical Surgical NCLEX RN related questions and content

A 58-year-old female with a family history of CAD is being seen for the annual physical examination. Fasting lab test results include: Total cholesterol 198; LDL cholesterol 120; HDL cholesterol 58; Triglycerides 148; Blood sugar 102; and C-reactive protein (CRP) 4.2. The health care provider informs the client that she will be started on a statin medication and aspirin. The client asks the nurse why she needs to take these medications. Which is the best response by the nurse?

  • A. The labs indicate severe hyperlipidemia and the medications will lower your LDL, along with a low-fat diet.'
  • B. The triglycerides are elevated and will be lowered to normal with these medications.'
  • C. The CRP is elevated indicating inflammation seen in cardiovascular disease, which can be lowered by the medications ordered.'
  • D. The medications are not indicated since your lab values are all normal.'
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Elevated CRP (4.2) indicates inflammation associated with cardiovascular risk. Statins and aspirin reduce inflammation and prevent cardiovascular events, addressing the client's risk profile.