HESI Mental Health Related

Review HESI Mental Health related questions and content

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with schizophrenia who is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril). Which information should the nurse include?

  • A. You need to come in for regular blood tests.
  • B. This medication can cause weight loss.
  • C. You can stop taking this medication once you feel better.
  • D. Avoid foods high in tyramine while on this medication.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'You need to come in for regular blood tests.' Clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition, so regular blood tests are required to monitor the client's white blood cell count. Choice B is incorrect because clozapine is associated with weight gain, not weight loss. Choice C is incorrect because the client should never stop taking clozapine abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms and symptom relapse. Choice D is incorrect because avoiding foods high in tyramine is typically associated with MAOIs, not clozapine.