A nurse is caring for a patient with kidney dysfunction. The nurse understands that kidney dysfunction can lead to an increase in the duration and intensity of a medication's response. Which lab tests should the nurse monitor? Select all that apply
Explanation & Rationale
A. BUN is a waste product of protein metabolism that is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated BUN levels can indicate impaired kidney function or kidney dysfunction. Since kidney dysfunction can affect the elimination of waste products, monitoring BUN is essential to assess the kidney's ability to filter and excrete waste. B. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is filtered out by the kidneys. It is one of the most reliable indicators of kidney function. When kidney function is impaired, creatinine levels rise in the blood because the kidneys are unable to excrete it efficiently. C. Lipid panel: This is unrelated to the metabolism of medications. D. Blood glucose: Blood glucose levels are important for diabetes management but are not directly impacted by kidney dysfunction in relation to medication response.