An older male adult comes to a primary care setting, and his reason for seeking health care is to get a prescription for sildenafil (Viagra).Which laboratory report can help to explain why this individual needs sildenafil?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sildenafil is commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. One of the underlying causes of ED is diabetes, which can have an impact on blood flow and nerve function in the penis. A high Hgb A1c level indicates poor management of diabetes, which could lead to ED and therefore prompt the need for sildenafil. The other laboratory values (serum potassium, prothrombin time, and hemoglobin) do not provide insight into the need for sildenafil.

An Older Male Adult Comes to a Primary Care Setting