Which laboratory test should the LPN/VN prioritize to evaluate for muscle damage in a client with a history of statin use?

To evaluate for muscle damage, particularly in a client with a history of statin use, prioritizing the measurement of creatinine kinase (CK) is essential. Statins can lead to a condition known as statin-associated muscle symptoms, which may include myopathy and in severe cases, rhabdomyolysis. CK is an enzyme that is released into the bloodstream when muscle tissue is damaged. Therefore, elevated levels of CK can indicate muscle injury, making it a key marker in assessing potential muscle damage in individuals on statin therapy.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) primarily assesses heart activity and rhythm and would not provide direct information regarding muscle damage. Liver function tests (LFTs) might be relevant since statins can impact liver function, but they are not specific indicators of muscle injury. A complete blood count (CBC) assesses various elements within the blood, such as red and white blood cells and platelets, but it does not include markers for muscle damage or specifically evaluate complications related to statin use.

Thus, focusing on CK levels allows for a targeted approach to diagnosing potential muscle damage associated with statin medication.