Question

Which finding in a client receiving gentamicin IV should the nurse report as an adverse effect?

a. Increased blood pressure
b. Tinnitus and hearing loss
c. Mild diarrhea
d. Mild headache

Answer 1

A nurse should report tinnitus and hearing loss as an adverse effect of gentamicin IV, as it is known for its potential ototoxicity which can cause serious and potentially permanent side effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

The adverse effect of gentamicin IV that a nurse should report is b. Tinnitus and hearing loss. Gentamicin, which is an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is known for its potential ototoxicity, which can result in hearing damage or loss and the presence of tinnitus. The symptoms of ototoxicity from gentamicin are especially crucial to report as they might indicate serious and potentially permanent side effects. In contrast, options such as mild diarrhea and mild headache, though they may be adverse effects, are less severe and not as characteristically worrisome as gentamicin's known ototoxic impacts. Furthermore, gentamicin is not typically associated with increased blood pressure, an effect more commonly reported with stimulant medications or drugs that affect the cardiovascular system.

Answer 2

The adverse effect that the nurse should report in a client receiving gentamicin IV is Tinnitus and hearing loss. Thus option B is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is associated with various adverse effects. Tinnitus and hearing loss are particularly significant and should be reported promptly due to their potential for irreversible damage. Gentamicin can cause ototoxicity, affecting the vestibular and auditory systems. The inner ear's sensory hair cells can be damaged by the accumulation of gentamicin, leading to auditory and vestibular dysfunction.

Tinnitus, characterized by ringing or buzzing in the ears, often precedes hearing loss and serves as an early warning sign of ototoxicity. Hearing loss, typically starting with high-frequency sounds, can progress to affect speech perception and daily functioning. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize these symptoms as signs of potential harm to the client's hearing and immediately notify the healthcare provider to assess and potentially adjust the medication regimen.

Regular monitoring of the client's auditory function, including audiograms, and assessing for symptoms like tinnitus or hearing changes are essential preventive measures. Gentamicin dosage is often adjusted based on therapeutic drug monitoring, where the drug's serum levels are measured to ensure efficacy while avoiding toxicity. Prompt reporting and close monitoring of these adverse effects can help prevent irreversible damage and ensure appropriate management for the client. Thus option B is correct.