Question

A nurse is caring for a 20-year-old female client who has a prescription for isotretinoin for severe nodulocystic acne vulgaris. Before the client can obtain a refill, the nurse should advise the client that which of the following tests is required?

Option 1:
a) Blood Glucose Test

Option 2:
b) Liver Function Test

Option 3:
c) Urine Culture

Option 4:
d) Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Answer 1

Before a client can obtain a refill of isotretinoin for severe nodulocystic acne vulgaris, the required test is a Liver Function Test. This test is necessary to monitor the client's liver health, as isotretinoin can elevate liver enzymes and potentially cause liver damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse is caring for a 20-year-old female client who has a prescription for isotretinoin for severe nodulocystic acne vulgaris. Isotretinoin is a potent medication with potential serious side effects, including effects on the liver and lipid levels. To monitor for these side effects and ensure safe use of the medication, regular laboratory tests are required by the prescribing guidelines.

The test required before a client can obtain a refill of isotretinoin is a Liver Function Test (Option 2). It is important to check the liver function because isotretinoin can cause liver enzymes to elevate, which may indicate liver damage. Regular liver function tests help to ensure that the medication is not causing harmful side effects to the liver. It is also common for patients on isotretinoin to be enrolled in a risk management program that includes lab monitoring.