What should patients taking phenothiazines report to their healthcare provider?

Patients taking phenothiazines should report any sore throat and signs of infection to their healthcare provider because these medications can cause bone marrow suppression, which can lead to agranulocytosis. This condition significantly lowers the white blood cell count, increasing the risk of infections. A sore throat or other signs of infection may indicate that the patient's immune system is compromised, requiring prompt medical evaluation and intervention to prevent serious complications.

The importance of monitoring for infections while on phenothiazines is crucial because early detection and treatment can prevent potentially severe outcomes. Patients should be educated on the symptoms of infection, including fever, chills, or increased fatigue, and encouraged to report these symptoms as soon as they arise for appropriate management.