A 69-year-old patient in the geriatric clinic has an annual physical examination and a complete blood count and serum electrolytes are drawn. While the physical examination was uneventful, the laboratory results show an elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN). What action will the nurse then take

A. Instructing the client on collecting a 24-hour urine specimen for a more detailed analysis: This may be done later if indicated, but it is not the first or most immediate step. B. Asking that the test be rerun since the client showed no physical signs of renal failure: BUN can rise for several reasons (e.g., dehydration, medications) even in the absence of symptoms. It should not be dismissed without further review. C. Reviewing the client's medication list since renal health can be affected by many specific medications: Many medications (e.g., NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, diuretics) can elevate BUN or affect renal function. Medication review is a prudent first step. D. Assuring the client that an elevated BUN is normal in older adults: Although BUN may trend slightly higher with age, an elevated result is not automatically normal and should be investigated.