What important laboratory test should be monitored in clients taking ticlopidine hydrochloride?

Monitoring a complete blood count (CBC) in clients taking ticlopidine hydrochloride is essential due to the medication's potential effects on the hematologic system. Ticlopidine is an antiplatelet agent that can lead to thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. This condition can elevate the risk of bleeding complications.

Regular CBC monitoring allows healthcare providers to assess the platelet count and detect any significant drops early, facilitating timely intervention if necessary. It helps to ensure that the benefits of the medication in preventing thromboembolic events are not outweighed by the risks of adverse effects related to blood components.

In contrast, while renal and liver function tests are important for many medications, ticlopidine specifically necessitates the monitoring of blood counts due to its distinct action and potential side effects. Thyroid function tests are generally not associated with ticlopidine use, making them less relevant in this context.