When caring for a client receiving albendazole therapy, which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic agent used to treat various parasitic infections. One of the notable aspects of its use is its potential impact on renal function, especially in cases where the drug is administered for extended periods or at higher doses. Therefore, prioritizing the assessment of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels is essential for evaluating the patient’s renal function.

Monitoring these parameters helps the nurse identify any potential nephrotoxicity that may arise from albendazole therapy, ensuring timely interventions if renal impairment is detected. While other assessments such as liver function tests, complete blood count, and electrolyte levels are important in a comprehensive evaluation of a patient's health, they may not be as critical to prioritize specifically in the context of albendazole therapy compared to renal function monitoring. Thus, focusing on blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels aligns with best practices for managing the patient's safety and treatment efficacy.