Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Full-length
The nurse is caring for a client with a history of bipolar disorder who is receiving valproic acid (Depakote) 500 mg PO bid. Which of the following laboratory results would be of GREATest concern to the nurse?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Elevated liver enzymes suggest hepatotoxicity, a serious side effect of valproic acid, requiring immediate evaluation to prevent liver failure. Options B, C, and D are normal: sodium 140 mEq/L, potassium 4.0 mEq/L, and hemoglobin 13 g/dL do not indicate complications.