A nurse is reviewing the BUN result of a client who is taking cyclosporine following a kidney transplant. Which of the following laboratory studies should the nurse recognize as another renal function study that should be monitored?

Rationale: A. Alkaline phosphatase: This enzyme is typically used to assess liver or bone disorders, not renal function. Although some values may rise due to medications or illness, it is not a primary marker for kidney health in transplant clients. B. Amylase: Amylase is used to evaluate pancreatic function and is not directly related to kidney function. It may be elevated in pancreatitis or abdominal conditions, but it does not provide information about renal performance. C. Creatinine: Serum creatinine is a key indicator of renal function and is commonly monitored alongside BUN in clients taking nephrotoxic drugs like cyclosporine. Elevations may signal impaired kidney function or transplant rejection. D. Bilirubin: Bilirubin reflects liver function and bile metabolism rather than kidney function. Although important in overall health assessment, it is not used to evaluate renal function in clients post-transplant.