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    Ati lpn paediatrics nursing cohort 5 proctored exam

    A nurse is caring an adolescent who has acne and a prescription for isotretinoin from the dermatologist. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse plan to monitor?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Isotretinoin does not typically alter potassium levels. Routine monitoring of potassium is not indicated in healthy adolescents taking isotretinoin, as the medication does not have known effects on renal potassium handling or cause electrolyte imbalances in this context. Monitoring potassium is only relevant if the patient has other conditions or medications that affect electrolytes. B. Isotretinoin can cause hyperlipidemia, increasing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may raise the risk for pancreatitis or long-term cardiovascular issues. Baseline lipid panels are obtained before starting therapy, with periodic monitoring during treatment to detect and manage elevations promptly. C. Isotretinoin is not nephrotoxic, meaning it does not typically impair kidney function. Routine monitoring of BUN and creatinine is not necessary unless the adolescent has preexisting kidney disease or other risk factors. Focus should remain on labs directly affected by the medication. D. Isotretinoin has no significant impact on serum sodium levels. Hyponatremia is not a known complication of isotretinoin therapy, so routine sodium monitoring is unnecessary in otherwise healthy clients. Laboratory monitoring should prioritize liver function tests and lipid profiles, which are more likely to be affected.

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