A nurse reviews lab findings for a client taking clozapine. Which finding requires notifying the provider?

• A. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• B. Platelets 200,000/mm3
• C. WBC count 3,500/mm3
• D. Potassium 3.7 mEq/L

Answer: (C)

Clozapine carries a significant risk of agranulocytosis, so patients on this medication require routine CBC monitoring with a focus on white blood cell counts and neutrophil levels. A WBC of 3,500/mm3 is below the typical normal range and indicates leukopenia, which in the context of clozapine therapy means there is a potential safety concern that requires provider notification. The clinician will evaluate the absolute neutrophil count and may decide to suspend or adjust treatment and increase monitoring to prevent progression to severe infection.

The other values shown are within normal limits (Sodium 140, platelets 200,000, potassium 3.7), so they do not raise immediate concerns related to clozapine at this time.