Question

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?

1) Complete blood count (CBC)
2) Liver function tests (LFTs)
3) Renal function tests
4) Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Answer 1

Before administering clozapine to a patient with schizophrenia, a nurse should review the Complete Blood Count (CBC) to monitor for potential agranulocytosis, which is essential for safe medication management.

Step-by-step explanation:

When administering clozapine to a client with schizophrenia, it is crucial for the nurse to review a Complete Blood Count (CBC) before administering the medication. Clozapine can have a serious side effect called agranulocytosis, which is a dangerous drop in white blood cells, and this risk necessitates regular monitoring of the patient's blood cell levels. Monitoring the CBC helps ensure that the patient has not developed this condition, and it allows for the prompt management of the side effect if it occurs.