Question

A client with trigeminal neuralgia tells the nurse that acetaminophen is taken on a frequent daily basis for relief of generalized discomfort. The nurse reviews the client's laboratory results and determines that which indicates toxicity associated with the medication?

A. Elevated liver enzymes
B. Increased serum creatinine
C. Decreased white blood cell count
D. Elevated blood glucose

Answer 1

Elevated liver enzymes in the lab results indicate toxicity associated with the frequent use of acetaminophen for pain relief in a client with trigeminal neuralgia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client with trigeminal neuralgia who frequently takes acetaminophen for generalized discomfort should be monitored for signs of medication toxicity. Among the lab results, elevated liver enzymes are indicative of acetaminophen toxicity, as the drug is metabolized in the liver and can cause liver damage when taken in excess, especially in combination with alcohol or when exceeding recommended doses. ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) in particular rises significantly with acute liver injury, such as from an overdose of acetaminophen.