When caring for a client receiving foscarnet, which laboratory study should be checked regularly?

Foscarnet is an antiviral medication commonly used in the treatment of herpes viruses, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS. One notable side effect of foscarnet is its potential to cause kidney toxicity. Therefore, regular monitoring of serum creatinine levels is essential to assess kidney function during treatment.

Elevations in serum creatinine indicate impaired renal function, which can necessitate a dose adjustment of foscarnet or a reevaluation of the treatment plan. Monitoring this specific laboratory study is crucial to ensure patient safety and to mitigate any risk of further renal damage while receiving therapy with foscarnet.

While the other laboratory studies mentioned do have their importance in different contexts, they are not as directly related to the potential adverse effects of foscarnet. For instance, CD4 cell counts are more pertinent in assessing immune function in HIV patients, serum albumin levels reflect nutritional status and overall health, and lymphocyte counts can provide insight into the immune response, but none specifically monitor foscarnet's renal side effects as effectively as serum creatinine.