Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What should a patient do regarding their fluvastatin prescription if they are experiencing side effects?

1. Continue taking the medicine

2. Take half the usual dose

3. Skip doses until lab results are available

4. Stop taking the medicine until lab results are available

The correct answer is: Stop taking the medicine until lab results are available

When a patient experiences side effects from fluvastatin, the most prudent step is to stop taking the medication until lab results are available. This decision is based on the potential risks associated with continuing the medication while experiencing adverse effects, which can include liver damage or muscle injury, especially with statins like fluvastatin. Stopping the medication allows for a clear evaluation of the patient's condition and any blood tests that may be necessary to assess liver function and muscle enzyme levels. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for the healthcare provider to reassess the patient's treatment plan, consider alternative therapies, or adjust the dosage based on the severity of the side effects and the patient's overall health status. Continuing the medication could exacerbate any existing side effects, leading to more serious health issues. Reducing the dose or skipping doses without consulting a healthcare professional may also complicate the assessment of the side effects or delay necessary interventions. Therefore, the safest and most responsible action is to stop the medication until a thorough evaluation can be conducted.