A client with schizophrenia has recently begun a new medication, clozapine (Clozaril). Which blood cell counts would reveal a potentially fatal side effect of this medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a potentially fatal side effect characterized by dangerously low levels of white blood cells (WBCs) and granulocytes. A WBC count of less than 3,000/mm³ and granulocytes less than 2,000/mm³ indicate this risk.

A Client with Schizophrenia Has Recently Begun a New Medication