The nurse is monitoring a client receiving gentamicin.
Which of the following would the nurse assess as potential toxic effects of this medication?
Pseudomembranous colitis and crystalluria.
Headaches, vertigo, and tinnitus.
Headache and potassium 3.5 mg/dL.
Hypoglycemia and cardiac dysrhythmias.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Pseudomembranous colitis and crystalluria are not typically associated with gentamicin use.
Choice B rationale
Gentamicin can cause ototoxicity, which can manifest as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and hearing loss. Headaches can also occur as a side effect of gentamicin.
Choice C rationale
While gentamicin can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), which could potentially affect electrolyte levels, a potassium level of 3.5 mg/dL is within the normal range. Therefore, this would not typically be assessed as a toxic effect of gentamicin.
Choice D rationale
Hypoglycemia and cardiac dysrhythmias are not typically associated with gentamicin use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A. After a below-the-knee amputation (BKA), pain management is crucial. Administering morphine 2-4 mg IV prn for pain is an appropriate physician’s order to implement. Pain can be severe after amputation, and effective pain management can improve patient comfort, reduce anxiety, and aid in recovery. Applying a figure of 8 pressure dressing starting day two post-operatively (Choice B) is not typically done after a BKA7. The operative dressing and splint should be maintained, and the wound should be kept clean, dry, and intact. Administering antibiotics as prescribed (Choice C) is important, but it is not the first action to take. Pain management is the priority immediately after surgery. Applying ice to the stump for 60-90 minutes (Choice D) is not typically done after a BKA7. The operative dressing and splint should be maintained, and the wound should be kept clean, dry, and intact.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring the peak level of the antibiotic is important, but it is not the priority nursing action. Peak levels are typically drawn after the drug has been administered and are used to assess whether the dosage is sufficient.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the client’s vital signs is an important part of nursing care, but it is not the priority action when preparing to administer an aminoglycoside antibiotic.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining a serum trough level is the priority nursing action. Trough levels are drawn just before the next dose of the drug is due and are used to assess whether the dosage is safe.
Choice D rationale
Asking the client about drug allergies is an important part of nursing care, but it is not the priority action when preparing to administer an aminoglycoside antibiotic.
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