What should be monitored to assess for renal impairment in a client receiving foscarnet sodium?

Monitoring serum creatinine levels is essential for assessing renal impairment in a client receiving foscarnet sodium. Foscarnet is an antiviral medication that is primarily excreted through the kidneys, and it can have nephrotoxic effects. Therefore, tracking serum creatinine helps evaluate the kidneys' ability to filter waste and maintain proper function. An increase in serum creatinine can indicate a decline in renal function, allowing for timely interventions to prevent further kidney damage.

While a complete metabolic panel and blood urea nitrogen levels can provide additional insights into overall metabolic and renal function, serum creatinine is a more direct marker for renal impairment. Serum sodium levels are less relevant in this context, as they do not specifically indicate kidney function or the effects of foscarnet. By focusing on serum creatinine, healthcare providers can more effectively monitor and manage potential renal complications associated with foscarnet therapy.