Question

which patient laboratory values will the nurse review before initiating therapy with phenytoin? select all that apply. arterial blood gases serum electrolytes liver function tests (lfts) blood urea nitrogen (bun) and serum creatinine complete blood count (cbc)

Explanation:

• Serum electrolytes: Phenytoin can affect electrolyte balance, so reviewing electrolytes is important.
• Liver function tests (LFTs): Phenytoin is metabolized in the liver, so LFTs help assess liver function to ensure safe dosing.
• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine: These assess renal function, as kidney function affects phenytoin metabolism and excretion.
• Complete blood count (CBC): Phenytoin can cause hematological changes (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), so a CBC is reviewed.
• Arterial blood gases: Not directly related to phenytoin therapy initiation, as phenytoin does not primarily affect acid - base balance relevant to its therapy initiation assessment.

Answer:

B. Serum electrolytes, C. Liver function tests (LFTs), D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine, E. Complete blood count (CBC)