A client with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia has been receiving IV vancomycin for the last 3 days. Which blood test trend is most important for the nurse to review when preparing to administer this medication?

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Vancomycin can cause nephrotoxicity, which occurs most often in clients who already have some degree of renal impairment. Serum creatinine levels should be monitored daily during IV vancomycin treatment to look for an increase in level over a few days. If an increasing trend is identified, the nurse should consult with the health care provider (HCP) and/or pharmacist before administering the dose. (Option A) Blood cultures may be checked periodically during vancomycin therapy, but they are not likely to change this quickly. (Option C) Magnesium levels are typically not affected by vancomycin therapy. (Option D) The WBC count may be helpful in determining the effectiveness of vancomycin therapy in treating infection. However, this laboratory result is unlikely to influence the nurse's decision on whether to administer the dose. Therefore, it is not the highest priority. Educational objective: Creatinine levels should be closely monitored for signs of nephrotoxicity in the client receiving IV vancomycin. If increasing creatinine is identified, the nurse should hold the dose and consult with the HCP and/or pharmacist before administration.

A Client with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Bacteremia Has Been