148k views
4 votes
A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has schizophrenia and a prescription for clozapine. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse review before administering the medication?

A. Blood count
B. Glucose
C. Total cholesterol
D. Hemoglobin

User Kimia
by
7.1k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final Answer:

Before administering clozapine to a client with schizophrenia, the nurse should review Blood count.Thus the option A. Blood count is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic medication, is associated with the risk of agranulocytosis, a serious condition characterized by a significant reduction in white blood cell count. Therefore, monitoring the complete blood count (CBC) is essential before initiating and during the course of clozapine treatment.

Agranulocytosis can be life-threatening, and regular blood count assessments help detect any abnormalities, allowing for timely intervention if needed.

Option (B) - Glucose, (C) - Total cholesterol, and (D) - Hemoglobin are not the primary laboratory tests for monitoring the side effects or adverse reactions specifically associated with clozapine. While glucose monitoring may be relevant for some antipsychotic medications due to metabolic effects, the primary concern with clozapine is hematologic.

Therefore, reviewing the blood count is crucial to ensure the early detection of agranulocytosis and maintain the safety of the client during clozapine therapy. Regular monitoring of blood counts is a standard practice in the management of clients receiving clozapine, reflecting the importance of close hematologic assessment to prevent serious complications associated with this medication.

Thus the option A. Blood count is correct.

User HotDogCannon
by
7.1k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.