Which tests should be prioritized for monitoring in a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis?

Monitoring patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis is crucial for managing their condition and preventing complications. In this context, prioritizing renal function and serum autoantibodies is essential for several reasons.

Lupus nephritis is a significant complication of SLE, leading to renal impairment. Regular assessments of renal function are vital because they help in early detection of renal flares or worsening of kidney function, allowing for timely interventions to prevent irreversible damage. Common tests for renal function include serum creatinine and urinary protein levels, which provide insight into how well the kidneys are filtering waste and managing protein levels.

Additionally, monitoring serum autoantibodies is important in tracking disease activity in SLE. Autoantibodies such as anti-dsDNA and complement levels can indicate flares of the disease and correlate with disease severity, particularly in the kidneys. Elevated levels of these autoantibodies often coincide with lupus nephritis flare-ups and can guide treatment decisions.

In contrast, while the other options contain relevant tests, they do not focus as specifically on the direct monitoring needs pertinent to lupus nephritis. Liver function tests and complete blood counts are generally important for a comprehensive evaluation but are less crucial in the context of managing