A nurse is caring for a client who has been taking clozapine for 2 weeks. The client tells the nurse, "My throat is sore, and I feel weak." The nurse assesses the client's vital signs and finds that the client has a fever
The nurse notifies the physician, expecting an order to obtain which laboratory test?
A) White blood cell count
B) Liver function studies
C) Serum potassium concentration
D) Serum sodium concentration
Ans: A
Clients who are taking clozapine are at risk for developing agranulocytosis; therefore, they should have their white blood cells and granulocytes monitored while taking this medication. An immediate evaluation of blood cell status is necessary when symptoms of infection are present. Liver function studies and serum potassium and sodium concentration would not be necessary based on the assessment findings.
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