Final answer:
When monitoring a client on phenytoin for anticonvulsant therapy, a nurse should closely observe liver function tests, complete blood count (CBC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum electrolytes, as these tests can indicate potential side effects of the medication on liver health, blood composition, kidney function, and electrolyte balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse monitoring a client taking anticonvulsant therapy with phenytoin would be particularly vigilant about testing that reflects the drug's effects on certain systems. Phenytoin can potentially impact liver function and hematopoietic systems, so it is essential to monitor the following laboratory tests closely:
- Liver function tests (LFTs): These tests are crucial as they can reveal the health of the liver, which is responsible for metabolizing phenytoin. Elevated levels of liver enzymes might suggest hepatotoxicity.
- Complete blood count (CBC): Monitoring the CBC is important because phenytoin can cause changes in the blood cell counts, which could lead to conditions such as anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia.
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): While not directly related to phenytoin's primary mechanism of action, assessing BUN can help gauge kidney function, which could be relevant in the context of overall health and medication metabolism.
- Serum electrolytes: Electrolyte imbalances can be a consequence of long-term anticonvulsant therapy. Monitoring electrolytes such as sodium and calcium is essential, as imbalances can contribute to seizure activity.
These tests provide a comprehensive overview of the body's response to phenytoin and help ensure patient safety when undergoing anticonvulsant therapy.