The nurse is caring for a patient with ulcerative colitis who is being treated with azathioprine. Which laboratory test result should be monitored periodically?
a. Microscopic urine examination
b. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential
c. Immunoglobulin survey
d. Serum albumin
ANS: B
The nurse should monitor the CBC, because neutropenia is a major adverse effect of azathioprine. Another major adverse effect is pancreatitis.
Microscopic urinalysis is not indicated.
The immunoglobulin and serum albumin levels do not require monitoring.
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