ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam related questions and content

A nurse in a psychiatric unit is providing discharge instructions to a client who has schizophrenia and a new prescription for clozapine. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?

  • A. Get up quickly from a sitting or lying position
  • B. Expect to have an increased risk of infection
  • C. Avoid exposure to sunlight
  • D. Limit fluid intake
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Expect to have an increased risk of infection. Clozapine is known to suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. The nurse should educate the client to monitor for signs of infection, practice good hygiene, and promptly report any symptoms of infection to their healthcare provider.
Choice A is incorrect because getting up quickly can lead to orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of clozapine. Choice C is incorrect as clozapine does not specifically require avoiding sunlight. Choice D is incorrect as limiting fluid intake is not a requirement for clozapine.