A nurse is reviewing laboratory data for a client who has a new prescription for valproic acid. Which of the following baseline results should the nurse review prior to administering the first dose of the medication?
Potassium level
Thyroid function tests
Uric acid level
Liver function tests
The Correct Answer is D
A. Potassium level – Valproic acid does not significantly affect potassium levels, so this is not a necessary baseline test.
B. Thyroid function tests – Valproic acid is not known to significantly impact thyroid function, making this an unnecessary test.
C. Uric acid level – Uric acid levels are more relevant for conditions like gout, and valproic acid does not typically cause hyperuricemia.
D. Liver function tests – This is the correct answer because valproic acid is metabolized in the liver and can cause hepatotoxicity. Baseline liver function tests (LFTs) should be reviewed before starting the medication to assess liver health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Call the nurse who made the error to discuss the medication error – This is not the appropriate action. The focus should be on client safety and proper reporting, not on discussing the error with the previous nurse.
B. File an incident report within 24 hr – This is the correct action. Incident reports should be completed promptly to document the error and ensure proper follow-up.
C. Notify the facility's pharmacist within 1 hr of the incident – While the pharmacist may be informed if a medication reversal or adjustment is needed, this is not the primary action to take.
D. Place an incident report in the client’s medical record – Incident reports are internal documents and should not be placed in the medical record to avoid legal concerns.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A hemoglobin level of 12 g/dL is within the expected range for an infant.
B. An iron level of 74 mcg/dL is normal for a 9-month-old.
C. This is the correct answer. A lead level of 18 mcg/dL is elevated (≥5 mcg/dL is concerning) and should be reported, as lead toxicity can lead to neurological damage.
D. A hematocrit of 35% is within the expected range for an infant.
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