Question

A nurse is reviewing the medication administration record for a client who has a new prescription for tobramycin to treat a pulmonary infection. Which of the following medications should the nurse identify as increasing the risk for ototoxicity while taking tobramycin?

A. Furosemide
B. Propanolol
C. Gabapentin
D. Guaifenesin

Answer 1

The medication that increases the risk for ototoxicity when taken with tobramycin is Furosemide. As both furosemide and tobramycin can damage ear cells, their concurrent use requires monitoring for ototoxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medication that a nurse should identify as increasing the risk for ototoxicity while taking tobramycin is Furosemide. Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic commonly used to treat various types of bacterial infections, including those caused by Pseudomonas spp. Aminoglycosides, like tobramycin, gentamicin, and streptomycin, are known to pose a risk for ototoxicity, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues.

Fruosemide is a loop diuretic, and when used concurrently with aminoglycosides, it can exacerbate ototoxic effects. This is because both drugs have the potential to damage the cells in the ear responsible for hearing and balance.

Other medications, including macrolides (such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin) and tetracyclines, do not significantly increase the risk of ototoxicity when used with tobramycin. Therefore, the nurse should closely monitor patients receiving both furosemide and tobramycin for signs of ototoxicity.