A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving tobramycin. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following adverse effects?

A. Drowsiness. Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine that works by blocking histamine and acetylcholine receptors in the brain to prevent nausea and vomiting. A common adverse effect is drowsiness due to its sedative properties, which can impair alertness and coordination. Clients should be advised to avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving, until they understand how the medication affects them.

B. Hypertension. Dimenhydrinate does not typically cause hypertension. Instead, it may lead to mild hypotension due to its sedative and anticholinergic effects. Clients with pre-existing hypertension should still monitor their blood pressure, but significant increases are uncommon.

C. Polyuria. Increased urination is not associated with dimenhydrinate use. Antihistamines, including dimenhydrinate, have anticholinergic properties, which can lead to urinary retention rather than increased urine output. Clients experiencing difficulty urinating should report this to their healthcare provider.

D. Dependent edema. Dimenhydrinate does not cause fluid retention or edema. Medications that contribute to edema typically involve hormonal, cardiovascular, or kidney-related effects, which are not mechanisms of dimenhydrinate. If a client develops unexplained edema, other underlying conditions should be investigated.

A. Oatmeal. Oatmeal is a healthy carbohydrate and fiber source, but it is not a significant source of potassium, which is essential for clients taking furosemide. While beneficial for overall health, oatmeal will not help counteract potassium loss caused by diuretic therapy.

B. Baked potatoes. Baked potatoes are rich in potassium, which is frequently lost due to furosemide’s potassium-wasting effects. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that increases urine output and depletes electrolytes, particularly potassium, which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels). To help maintain electrolyte balance, clients should consume potassium-rich foods like potatoes, bananas, oranges, and spinach.

C. Brown rice. Brown rice is a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates, but it contains only small amounts of potassium. While it provides sustained energy, it does not significantly contribute to potassium replacement, making it less beneficial for clients on furosemide.

D. Eggs. Eggs are high in protein and essential nutrients but are not a significant source of potassium. While eggs are beneficial for overall health, they do not help replenish potassium lost due to diuretic therapy.