Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 76%
Simulated
The client asks the nurse how atorvastatin (Lipitor) will help lower cholesterol. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: It interferes with how cholesterol is made. Atorvastatin is a statin drug that works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, atorvastatin reduces the amount of cholesterol produced, leading to lower overall cholesterol levels in the blood. This mechanism of action is well understood and supported by scientific evidence.
Choice B is incorrect because the mechanism of action of atorvastatin is indeed understood. Choice C is incorrect because atorvastatin does not bind to cholesterol but rather inhibits its production. Choice D is incorrect because atorvastatin does not make the body excrete cholesterol quicker; it primarily works by reducing cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
Choice B is incorrect because the mechanism of action of atorvastatin is indeed understood. Choice C is incorrect because atorvastatin does not bind to cholesterol but rather inhibits its production. Choice D is incorrect because atorvastatin does not make the body excrete cholesterol quicker; it primarily works by reducing cholesterol synthesis in the liver.