Final answer:
A patient on valproic acid should be monitored for liver function due to the potential for hepatotoxicity, which can lead to liver damage or inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should monitor the patient on valproic acid for liver function. Valproic acid is a medication primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder and is known to potentially cause hepatotoxicity. Monitoring liver enzyme levels is critical as elevated levels can indicate liver damage or inflammation. This monitoring helps ensure the safety and effectiveness of the therapy while reducing the risk of serious side effects associated with valproic acid.