A client who has been taking clozapine for 6 weeks visits the ...

[Melani1276]

A client who has been taking clozapine for 6 weeks visits the clinic complaining of fever, sore throat, and mouth sores. The nurse notifies the client's physician because the nurse suspects which of the following?
 
  A) Severe anemia
  B) Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  C) Encephalitis
  D) Agranulocytosis

Question 2

A client has been prescribed clozapine for treatment of schizophrenia. Which of the following would the nurse include in the education plan for this client and family?
 
  A) You may experience hypertension while taking this medication.
  B) One of the side effects of this medication is breast engorgement.
  C) People taking this medication often experience dermatitis.
  D) You may experience noticeable weight gain while taking this medication.

[Carissamariew]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
High fever, sore throat, and mouth sores are indicative of infection secondary to agranulocytosis, which has been associated with clozapine. The medication can suppress the bone marrow and cause a significant decrease in white blood cells. The client's signs and symptoms do not suggest anemia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, or encephalitis.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: D
Weight gain is a common side effect of the atypical antipsychotics, particularly clozapine and olanzapine, which can cause a weight gain of up to 20 pounds within 1 year. Orthostatic hypotension may occur with this drug. Breast engorgement would be more likely with typical antipsychotics. Photosensitivity, not dermatitis, is associated with antipsychotic use.