What intervention is essential prior to starting a client on atorvastatin therapy?

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Prior to starting therapy with statin medications (eg, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin, atorvastatin), the client's liver function tests should be assessed. The drug is metabolized by the hepatic enzyme system and could cause drug-induced hepatitis and increased liver enzymes. Liver function tests should be assessed prior to the start of therapy. (Option A) Statins can also cause muscle aches and, rarely, severe muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis). Clients should be educated to report the development of muscle pains while on therapy. Assessment of muscle strength is not necessary prior to starting therapy. (Option B) Assessment of dietary intake prior to therapy is not essential. Dietary teaching would have been performed prior to determining that medication therapy was necessary. (Option C) Atorvastatin may slightly increase serum digoxin levels; however, it is not essential to determine if the client is on this medication prior to starting therapy. Educational objective: Statin medications (eg, rosuvastatin, atorvastatin) can cause hepatotoxicity and muscle aches. Liver function tests should be assessed prior to the start of therapy.

What Intervention Is essential Prior to Starting a Client on Atorvastatin