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    ATI PN Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 II

    A nurse is caring for a male client who is to begin therapy with valproic acid.Which of the following diagnostic results should the nurse plan to review before administering the first dose?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A rationaleLiver function tests, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with a normal range of 7 to 56 U/L for females and 10 to 70 U/L for males, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) with a normal range of 5 to 40 U/L for both sexes, should be reviewed before administering valproic acid. Valproic acid can cause hepatotoxicity, and pre-existing liver dysfunction is a contraindication or requires careful monitoring.Choice B rationaleA chest x-ray is primarily used to assess the lungs and heart. It is not directly relevant to the potential side effects or contraindications of valproic acid therapy.Choice C rationaleA prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is used to screen for prostate cancer in men. It is not related to the potential adverse effects of valproic acid. The normal range for PSA is generally less than 4 ng/mL, but this can vary with age.Choice D rationaleA urine culture is used to detect urinary tract infections. While important for overall health assessment, it does not directly assess for contraindications or potential organ-specific side effects associated with valproic acid administration. .

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