A patient taking valproic acid (Depakote) for the management of a seizure disorder has a trough serum drug level drawn
Which laboratory result would prompt the nurse to ask the patient about the adequacy of the medication supply and daily dosing routines?
a. 52 mcg/mL
b. 24 mcg/mL
c. 120 mcg/mL
d. 75 mcg/mL
ANS: B
The normal Depakote level is 50 to 150 mcg/mL; a value below 50 mcg/mL indicates a subtherapeutic level, especially when a trough level (30 minutes before next dose) is drawn. The nurse should question whether compliance is an issue or perhaps a dosage adjustment is in order.
The other levels are within normal range and therefore would not be a concern.
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