Which nursing intervention is appropriate for a patient taking allopurinol?

• A. Have or get a yearly eye exam
• B. Limit intake of high uric acid foods
• C. Monitor lab tests for renal and hepatic function (LFTs)
• D. Record urine output

Answer: (C)

Allopurinol can affect both the liver and the kidneys, so the most important nursing intervention is to monitor renal and hepatic function with lab tests. Obtain baseline liver enzymes and kidney function before starting therapy, then check them periodically to detect toxicity early and adjust the dose if needed. While hydration and dietary considerations can help overall gout management, they don’t directly address the drug’s safety concerns as effectively as ongoing lab monitoring. Tracking urine output is useful in certain renal conditions, but it’s the lab tests that best guide safe use of this medication.