A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a prescription for clozapine. Which of the following findings is an adverse effect of clozapine?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Hypertension is not a primary adverse effect of clozapine. While clozapine can cause cardiovascular changes such as tachycardia or hypotension, hypertension is not a hallmark adverse reaction. Therefore, this option is incorrect. Choice B reason: Neutropenia is a serious and well-documented adverse effect of clozapine. Clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by dangerously low levels of neutrophils. This places the client at high risk for severe infections. Because of this risk, clients prescribed clozapine require routine monitoring of white blood cell counts and absolute neutrophil counts. This makes neutropenia the correct answer. Choice C reason: Hypocalcemia is not associated with clozapine use. Electrolyte disturbances such as hypocalcemia are not part of the drug’s adverse effect profile. Clozapine’s risks are primarily hematologic, cardiovascular, and metabolic, not related to calcium balance. Choice D reason: Bradycardia is not a typical adverse effect of clozapine. Instead, clozapine is more likely to cause tachycardia due to its anticholinergic and adrenergic effects. Bradycardia would not be expected in this context, making this option incorrect.