A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine ...

[chads108]

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril). Which client symptoms related to the side effects of this medication should prompt a nurse to intervene immediately?
 
  A. Sore throat, fever, and malaise
  B. Akathisia and hypersalivation
  C. Akinesia and insomnia
  D. Dry mouth and urinary retention

Question 2

A college student has quit attending classes, isolates self because of hearing voices, and yells accusations at fellow students. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis should the nurse prioritize?
 
  A. Altered thought processes R/T hearing voices AEB increased anxiety
  B. Risk for other-directed violence R/T yelling accusations
  C. Social isolation R/T paranoia AEB absence from classes
  D. Risk for self-directed violence R/T depressed mood

[tandmlomax84]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The nurse should intervene immediately if the client experiences a sore throat, fever, and malaise when taking the atypical antipsychotic drug clozapine (Clozaril). Clozapine can have a serious side effect of agranulocytosis, in which a potentially fatal drop in white blood cells can occur. Symptoms of infectious processes would alert the nurse to this potential.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The nursing diagnosis that must be prioritized in this situation is risk for other-directed violence R/T yelling accusations. Hearing voices and yelling accusations indicate a potential for violence, and this potential safety issue should be prioritized.