A client taking clozapine has a temperature of 38.7 C, sore … | MyMerci
Adverse Effects/Contraindications/Interactions PPT
Question

A client taking clozapine has a temperature of 38.7 C, sore throat, and an absolute neutrophil count of 420/mcL. Which action should the nurse take?

Explanation
Fever with an ANC below 500/mcL represents severe neutropenia and high risk for serious infection, requiring interruption and urgent management.
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In-depth explanation

Quick answer
Protect against fatal infection during severe clozapine neutropenia.

Why this is correct
The label directs interruption for fever and immediate ANC evaluation; severe neutropenia requires specialized monitoring and management.

Easy analogy or mental picture
Treat medication safety like airway triage: identify the threat, interrupt exposure, support physiology, and verify a durable response.

Memory hook
Cue, risk, action, response, recurrence check.

NCLEX decision rule
Choose the action that prevents the most immediate medication-related harm while preserving reassessment and escalation.

Why the other choices are wrong
Options that normalize deterioration, add interacting medication, or delay rescue leave the safety loop open.
References
1DailyMed: ClozapineSevere neutropenia, fever interruption, ANC assessment, and infection risk

Clinical scenario

Medication safety review
Verify the indication, current assessment, respiratory and neurologic status, interactions, authorized rescue action, and measurable follow-up.
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For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.