A nurse in a clinic is planning care for a child who has ADHD and is taking atomoxetine.
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor?

Choice A rationale:

Asking about past coping mechanisms can provide valuable information, but in this situation, where the client is expressing thoughts of hopelessness, it's crucial to assess the immediate risk of suicide. Therefore, this choice is not the best option in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Involving significant others in the client's care is important, but it doesn't address the client's current emotional state and suicidal ideation. This choice does not take priority in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

While exploring family history, including suicide, is relevant, it's not the first question to ask. Assessing the client's current thoughts and feelings should be the priority before delving into family history. Therefore, this choice is not the best option at this moment.

Choice D rationale:

(Correct Choice) This is the most appropriate question to ask first. Assessing the client's suicidal ideation is crucial for ensuring their safety. If the client expresses suicidal thoughts, the nurse can take immediate steps to keep the client safe, such as involving a mental health professional or initiating a suicide risk assessment.

Choice A rationale:

Heart rate 58/min. Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic medication, can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) as a side effect. However, the heart rate of 58/min is within the normal range for adults, so it is not a contraindication for clozapine administration.

Choice B rationale:

Fasting blood glucose 100 mg/dL. A fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL is within the normal range (70-99 mg/dL) for adults. It is not a contraindication for clozapine administration.

Choice C rationale:

WBC count 2,900/mm3. Clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a severe reduction in white blood cell (WBC) count, which can lead to increased susceptibility to infections. A WBC count of 2,900/mm3 is significantly below the normal range (4,000-11,000/mm3) and is a contraindication for clozapine administration due to the risk of severe immunosuppression.

Choice D rationale:

Hgb 14 g/dL. Hemoglobin (Hgb) level of 14 g/dL is within the normal range for adult males (13.8-17.2 g/dL) and females (12.1-15.1 g/dL). It is not a contraindication for clozapine administration.