Final answer:
In a patient with diabetes treated with IV gentamicin, serum creatinine should be monitored to detect potential nephrotoxicity. Monitoring serum potassium is also important due to the risk of hypokalemia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Monitoring for Adverse Effects of Gentamicin
A patient with diabetes being treated with IV gentamicin for bacterial pneumonia should be closely monitored for adverse effects of the medication. Of the options provided, serum creatinine should be monitored. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that can potentially cause nephrotoxicity, which is toxicity to the kidneys, often reflected in increased serum creatinine levels. This is particularly important as renal dysfunction can exacerbate hypoglycemia in diabetic patients due to non-reabsorption of filtered glucose. Persistent high serum creatinine may indicate impaired kidney function and possibly the onset of renal failure, which can be a severe complication. Additionally, some patients with diabetes experience a drop in serum potassium when insulin is administered, as potassium follows glucose into the cells. Thus, monitoring serum potassium for signs of hypokalemia (low potassium) is also important, particularly since gentamicin can also contribute to electrolyte imbalances.