What serious condition should a nurse monitor for in patients receiving albendazole and dexamethasone?

The serious condition that a nurse should monitor for in patients receiving albendazole and dexamethasone is liver damage. Albendazole, an anthelmintic agent, can lead to hepatotoxicity, which may present as elevated liver enzymes or jaundice. Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, can also influence liver metabolism and exacerbate underlying liver conditions.

Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential during treatment with these medications, especially if the patient has pre-existing liver issues or is on other hepatotoxic drugs. This vigilance helps to ensure early detection and management of potential liver damage, protecting the patient from complications associated with hepatic impairment.

In this context, while renal failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and neurotoxicity are important considerations, they are not specifically linked to the combined use of albendazole and dexamethasone in the same way that liver damage is. Hence, the focus on monitoring liver function is critical for patient safety during treatment.