A practical nurse is preparing to administer a scheduled morning dose of oral clozapine to a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Prior to administration, the nurse reviews the client's most recent complete blood count (CBC) results, which indicate a white blood cell (WBC) count of and an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of . Which of the following is the most appropriate action by the nurse?
- Withhold the dose of clozapine and immediately report the laboratory results to the registered nurse.Cevap
- BAdminister the medication as prescribed and closely monitor the client for signs of infection.
- CCalculate and administer a reduced dosage of the medication to minimize the risk of further bone marrow suppression.
- DExplain the risks of agranulocytosis to the client and obtain a new signed consent before administering the dose.
Cevap
The nurse should withhold the medication and report the critical laboratory results to the registered nurse.
Clozapine can cause severe agranulocytosis. An ANC below indicates severe neutropenia. The standard protocol requires withholding the medication and immediately notifying the provider or registered nurse to initiate protective precautions and alternative treatment.
Adım Adım Çözüm
Anahtar Kavram
Clozapine requires strict monitoring of WBC and ANC due to the risk of agranulocytosis; critical lows require withholding the drug and immediate escalation.