Question

A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has schizophrenia and is to start taking clozapine. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication for the client to receive clozapine?

A) WBC count 2,800
B) BP 150/87
C) Auditory hallucinations
D) Nausea

Answer 1

A WBC count of 2,800 is a contraindication for a client with schizophrenia to start taking clozapine due to the risk of agranulocytosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

A student has inquired about a contraindication for taking clozapine for a client with schizophrenia. Among the listed options, a WBC count of 2,800 is a significant finding that indicates a potential contraindication. Clozapine can lead to agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening reduction in white blood cells (WBCs). Therefore, a client with a WBC count of 2,800—which is below the normal range—should not begin treatment with clozapine due to the increased risk of infection and compromised immune response.