The patient is taking a statin drug. Which assessment data would be a priority for the nurse to report immediately to the physician?
1. "My calves hurt, and I had a hard time walking to the bathroom."
2. "I know I just started this medicine yesterday, but my stomach really is upset."
3. "Will you call my doctor? I have a really bad headache."
4. "My heart rate really went up this morning."
Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: The nurse must assess for complaints of muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness as this could indicate a type of myopathy known as rhabdomyolysis. The statin drugs do not affect heart rate. Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is a common occurrence with the statin drugs and is easily remedied by taking the drug with food. Headache is considered a minor side effect and is easily remedied by analgesic medications.
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