Which clinical sign may prompt a nurse to assess for liver function in a patient on ketoconazole?

The presence of a yellow hue in the sclera, known as jaundice, can be a key indicator of liver dysfunction. Ketoconazole is sometimes associated with hepatotoxicity, meaning it has the potential to cause liver damage. When a patient is on this medication, the appearance of jaundice may prompt a healthcare provider to assess liver function to check for any possible adverse effects on the liver. The liver plays a critical role in metabolizing medications, and any signs of liver impairment can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.

In this context, observing jaundice signifies that there may be an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream, which can occur when the liver's ability to process it is impaired. Therefore, monitoring liver function tests in patients taking ketoconazole becomes essential if such clinical signs are noted.