Final answer:
The nurse should expect the provider to order liver function tests for a school-aged child taking valproic acid to monitor the potential side effects on the liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should expect the provider to order Liver function tests for a school-aged child taking valproic acid. Valproic acid is a medication commonly used to treat seizure disorders, and it can have potential side effects on the liver. Liver function tests are important in monitoring the liver enzymes and overall liver function to ensure that there are no adverse effects from the medication.
These tests look for the presence of certain enzymes, metabolites, or products that indicate normal liver function. Some of the parameters used in liver function tests include alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin levels, serum albumin, total protein, and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio.
By performing liver function tests, healthcare providers can assess the child's liver health and make adjustments to the treatment plan if necessary.