Which class of antibiotic is associated with cartilage toxicity and rupture of the Achilles tendon?

A. Changes in mental status:

Changes in mental status are not typically associated with ototoxicity caused by gentamicin. Mental status changes may indicate other systemic effects or adverse reactions, but they are not specific to ototoxicity.

B. Complaints that he is unable to hear the television:

This complaint is highly indicative of ototoxicity. Hearing loss, particularly high-frequency hearing loss, is a common symptom of ototoxicity caused by drugs like gentamicin. Difficulty hearing sounds such as the television, especially at typical volume levels, suggests a potential problem with hearing function.

C. An increase in the BUN and creatinine:

An increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels may indicate kidney damage, which can occur as a result of nephrotoxicity associated with gentamicin use. While nephrotoxicity is a known adverse effect of gentamicin, it is not specific to ototoxicity.

D. Tingling of the extremities:

Tingling of the extremities is not typically associated with ototoxicity caused by gentamicin. This symptom may suggest other neurological or systemic effects but is not specific to ototoxicity.

A. Keep the serum drug level within the therapeutic margin:

This is the correct goal of monitoring peak and trough levels during antibacterial therapy. The therapeutic margin refers to the range of drug concentrations in the bloodstream that achieves optimal therapeutic effects while avoiding toxicity. By monitoring peak and trough levels, healthcare providers can adjust the dosing regimen to maintain drug levels within this therapeutic margin.

B. Increase the therapeutic effect of the drug by gradually decreasing the drug dose:

This statement is incorrect. Monitoring peak and trough levels is not about increasing the therapeutic effect of the drug by gradually decreasing the drug dose. Instead, it's about ensuring that the drug levels are maintained within the appropriate therapeutic range to achieve optimal efficacy without causing adverse effects.

C. Provide maximum physical comfort to the patient:

Monitoring peak and trough levels is not primarily aimed at providing physical comfort to the patient. While optimizing drug therapy can contribute to improved clinical outcomes and patient well-being, the goal of monitoring these levels is specifically related to achieving therapeutic drug concentrations.

D. Treat the main disorder with no psychological distress to the patient:

This statement is unrelated to the goal of monitoring peak and trough levels during antibacterial therapy. While psychological distress may be a consideration in patient care, the primary goal of monitoring drug levels is to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.