A client with schizophrenia has recently begun a new medication, clozapine (Clozaril). Which potentially fatal side effect will the nurse teach the client about?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Agranulocytosis is a potentially fatal side effect of clozapine. It is a blood disorder that can lead to a decreased white blood cell count, leaving the client susceptible to infections. Therefore, the nurse must monitor the client's white blood cell count regularly while taking clozapine.

A Client with Schizophrenia Has Recently Begun a New Medication