What intervention should be added to a care plan for a client prescribed carbamazepine for trigeminal neuralgia?

For a client prescribed carbamazepine, it is essential to monitor for potential side effects, particularly those associated with bone marrow suppression, which can lead to leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells). One of the serious adverse effects of carbamazepine therapy is the risk of developing agranulocytosis, which can increase susceptibility to infections. Therefore, advising the client to report any signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat, is a critical intervention.

This proactive approach ensures early identification of any serious complications that may arise from the medication, facilitating timely medical evaluation and appropriate management. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring the patient's overall health while on carbamazepine therapy for trigeminal neuralgia.