A 68-Year-Old Woman Comes to the Office to Discuss Lipid-Lowering

question 199

Multiple Choice

A 68-year-old woman comes to the office to discuss lipid-lowering therapy.  She was prescribed rosuvastatin 6 months ago following a transient ischemic attack, but her pharmacy sent a notice to the physician a week ago that she has not filled her prescription for the past 3 months.  The patient otherwise feels well and has had no recurrent neurologic symptoms.  When asked why she is not taking her medication, she says, "I feel great without it.  The ministroke was the scariest thing that ever happened to me, and now that I have put it behind me, I don't want the medication to remind me about my problem all over again."  Which of the following is the most appropriate response to this patient's statement?

• A)"I understand that having a ministroke was scary.  Maybe we can talk about how the medication can help keep you healthy."
• B)"It is your choice whether to take the medication.  But for your safety, please discuss your preferences with me first."
• C)"It sounds like you believe another ministroke is unlikely to happen to you.  Is that correct?"
• D)"Many patients share your concerns about the medication.  However, most people who stop the medication later regret not taking it."
• E)"You have a serious condition.  Let's talk about some of the consequences if you do not take this medication."

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Definitions:

Symbolize

Refers to the process of representing objects, actions, or ideas through symbols or a symbolic system.

Quantity

The quantity of a physical or abstract entity not typically measured in terms of space.

Quality

A characteristic or attribute that determines the degree of excellence or deficiency of something.

Mathematicians

Professionals or scholars who specialize in the study, research, and application of mathematics.