What side effect should a client on carbamazepine be instructed to report?

A client on carbamazepine should be instructed to report fever as a significant side effect. Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant medication that can cause a potentially serious adverse reaction called agranulocytosis, which is a decrease in white blood cell count. This condition can lead to an increased risk of infections, and one of the first signs might be a fever. In this context, the appearance of a fever could indicate a serious underlying issue that requires immediate medical attention.

Nausea and vomiting, although common side effects when starting the medication or increasing dosage, are generally not life-threatening and typically resolve as the body adjusts. Similarly, headache and blurred vision can occur but may not indicate a serious concern unless accompanied by other symptoms. It's essential for clients to be aware of more serious side effects, such as fever, which necessitate further medical evaluation and possible intervention.