A patient is started on immunosuppressant drugs after kidney transplantation and will be taking azathioprine [Imuran] as part of the drug regimen. The patient asks the nurse why it is necessary to have a specimen for a complete blood count drawn at the beginning of therapy and then periodically thereafter. The nurse explains that azathioprine can alter blood cells and tells the patient to report:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Azathioprine can cause bone marrow suppression,resulting in neutropenia and thrombocytopenia; therefore,a CBC must be evaluated at baseline and periodically thereafter. Patients who have low platelet counts bruise easily,so this symptom should be reported. Alopecia occurs with azathioprine but is not a life-threatening side effect. Fatigue is not a common adverse effect. GI side effects occur but are not life threatening.

A Patient Is Started on Immunosuppressant Drugs After Kidney Transplantation