What is the overall treatment goal for a client taking atorvastatin?

The overall treatment goal for a client taking atorvastatin is to reduce the risk of vascular disease or events. Atorvastatin is a statin medication primarily prescribed to manage cholesterol levels, especially in patients who are at increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. By lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, atorvastatin helps prevent atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries) and reduces the chances of incidents such as heart attacks or strokes.

The focus on long-term reduction in cardiovascular risk is supported by numerous clinical studies showing that using statins like atorvastatin not only lowers cholesterol but also has a protective effect against significant vascular events. This aligns with current clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of risk assessment and preventive strategies in managing patients with or at risk for heart disease.

While lowering immediate cholesterol levels is a part of the treatment process, the broader goal is not just to achieve specific numbers on a laboratory report, but to improve the patient's overall health by preventing serious cardiovascular outcomes.