Covid-19 may result in patients self-isolating and being unable to attend for their full blood counts or being reluctant to travel to clinics for sampling. Similarly there may be staffing issues that mean it becomes very difficult to maintain normal clinic approaches. In both instances a pragmatic approach is required that supports patient safety with regards to clozapine monitoring but also reflects the realities of the Covid-19 outbreak.
- Patients with a fever: IMMEDIATELY test for both agranulocytosis and Covid-19 especially if they are also showing others signs of these conditions e.g. coughing, sore throat, shortness of breath and a runny nose
- For patients self-isolating: A supply will be issued to cover self-isolation period and to allow time for a blood sample to be taken and will be agreed on an individual patient basis.
Given the current isolation advice this should support on-going dispensing in most instances.
- Please record any actions taken on EMIS and inform pharmacy of any delays in blood testing.