Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 64%
Simulated
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine. The nurse teaches the client and family to call the physician immediately if:
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: There are any signs of infection. Clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a serious side effect that suppresses the immune system, leading to an increased risk of infection. Therefore, any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms must be reported immediately to the physician to monitor for agranulocytosis. Choice B is incorrect because a decrease in hallucinations is a therapeutic effect of clozapine and should be expected. Choice C is incorrect as a decrease in appetite is a common side effect of clozapine and usually improves over time. Choice D is incorrect as insomnia is a common side effect of clozapine and does not require immediate medical attention.