A client with AIDS starts zidovudine (AZT). Which laboratory value should be assessed to monitor therapy?

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Multiple Choice

A client with AIDS starts zidovudine (AZT). Which laboratory value should be assessed to monitor therapy?

Explanation:
Zidovudine commonly causes bone marrow suppression, so the most informative way to monitor therapy is with a complete blood count. The CBC reveals anemia (low hemoglobin/hematocrit) and changes in white blood cells or platelets, which are the key toxic effects of AZT. Detecting these early helps guide dose adjustments or discontinuation to prevent serious complications. CD4 count shows immune status and disease progression, not toxicity. Electrolytes and liver function tests assess other aspects of physiology or toxicity but don’t specifically monitor AZT’s primary adverse effect.

Zidovudine commonly causes bone marrow suppression, so the most informative way to monitor therapy is with a complete blood count. The CBC reveals anemia (low hemoglobin/hematocrit) and changes in white blood cells or platelets, which are the key toxic effects of AZT. Detecting these early helps guide dose adjustments or discontinuation to prevent serious complications.

CD4 count shows immune status and disease progression, not toxicity. Electrolytes and liver function tests assess other aspects of physiology or toxicity but don’t specifically monitor AZT’s primary adverse effect.

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