The nurse is teaching a patient who is taking clozapine ...

[joesmith1212]

The nurse is teaching a patient who is taking clozapine (Clozaril) to have weekly blood tests for the first 6 months of treatment to monitor for which potential complication?
 
  a. Agranulocytosis
  b. Vitamin deficiencies
  c. Clotting abnormalities
  d. Polycythemia

Question 2

Which statement is true regarding the adverse effects associated with antipsychotic medications?
 
  a. Tardive dyskinesia is a common, reversible condition.
  b. Painful dystonic reactions can occur in the first 72 hours of initiation of therapy.
  c. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a common adverse effect.
  d. Pseudoparkinsonian symptoms can cause Parkinson's disease.

[bblaney]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The use of clozapine requires a baseline and weekly white blood cell (WBC) counts because of the high incidence of agranulocytosis. Clozapine does not cause vitamin deficiencies. Clozapine does not interfere with clotting abilities. Clozapine does not affect red blood cell volume.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Approximately 90 of all dystonic reactions occur in the first 72 hours of antipsychotic therapy. These symptoms are often frightening and painful. Tardive dyskinesia is present in 20 to 25 of patients and may become irreversible. NMS is not a common adverse effect. Pseudoparkinsonism is not related to Parkinson's disease.