The patient is receiving a statin drug.The nurse notes an increase in creatine phosphokinase (CPK)levels.What is the nurse's priority action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in CPK levels can indicate muscle damage, which is a potential side effect of statin drugs. Holding the drug and notifying the physician is the priority action to prevent further harm to the patient. The physician may choose to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication. Obtaining another CPK level in 6 hours or administering the drug and continuing to assess for muscle pain are not appropriate actions without consulting the physician first.

The Patient Is Receiving a Statin Drug