Question

A client tells the nurse that acetaminophen is taken daily for the relief of generalized discomfort. Which laboratory value would indicate toxicity associated with the medication?

A. Platelet count of 150,000 mm3
B. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
C. Prothrombin time of 12 seconds
D. AST. 268 U/L ALT. 150 U/L

Answer 1

Elevated levels of AST (268 U/L) and ALT (150 U/L) indicate potential liver toxicity, which can be related to acetaminophen overdose.

Therefore the correct answer is option D. AST. 268 U/L ALT. 150 U/L

Step-by-step explanation:

The laboratory value that would indicate toxicity associated with the medication acetaminophen is D. AST. 268 U/L ALT. 150 U/L. These enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), are markers of liver function and are typically elevated when there is liver damage.

Acetaminophen is known for its hepatotoxic effects when overdosed, which can lead to severe liver damage. Normal values for AST are about 5-20 U/L and for ALT are about 5-45 U/L. Therefore, the values given in option D are significantly elevated, indicating potential liver toxicity from acetaminophen overdose.