Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 89%
Simulated
A 58-year-old female with a family history of CAD is being seen for the annual physical examination. Fasting lab test results include: Total cholesterol 198; LDL cholesterol 120; HDL cholesterol 58; Triglycerides 148; Blood sugar 102; and C-reactive protein (CRP) 4.2. The health care provider informs the client that she will be started on a statin medication and aspirin. The client asks the nurse why she needs to take these medications. Which is the best response by the nurse?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Elevated CRP (4.2) indicates inflammation associated with cardiovascular risk. Statins and aspirin reduce inflammation and prevent cardiovascular events, addressing the client's risk profile.