Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is not interpreted from LDL-C alone. The RN asks two separate questions: how much cumulative atherosclerotic risk is carried by apoB-containing particles, and whether triglycerides are high enough to create an immediate pancreatitis concern. In Canada, treatment intensity is determined by the patient's cardiovascular risk, established vascular disease, diabetes or kidney disease, lipid thresholds, and risk modifiers such as Lp(a)—not by a single laboratory result in isolation. The 2021 Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) dyslipidemia guideline remains the governing Canadian framework as of August 2026. The practical nursing work is to recognize silent risk, look for a reversible or inherited cause, support the indicated lipid-lowering plan, assess adherence and adverse effects, and escalate acute vascular, pancreatic, or severe muscle symptoms.