Final answer:
In medicine, it is crucial for a nurse to check a patient's latest creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) results before administering a potentially nephrotoxic drug.
Step-by-step explanation:
In medicine, it is crucial for a nurse to check a patient's latest creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) results before administering a potentially nephrotoxic drug. These blood tests provide important information about the patient's kidney function. Creatinine, a waste product of muscle metabolism, and BUN, an indicator of kidney function, are used to assess renal function.
For example, if a patient has elevated creatinine and BUN levels, it may indicate impaired kidney function. Administering a nephrotoxic drug in such a situation can further worsen the renal function and lead to potential harm. By checking the latest creatinine and BUN results, the nurse can make an informed decision about whether it is safe to administer the drug.