A client has been receiving intravenous antibiotics (ototoxic) for several weeks. Which prevention strategy would be best for the nurse to recommend for this client?
Formal hearing test.
Rubbing fingers test.
Tuning fork test.
Whisper hearing test.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
A formal hearing test, or audiometry, is the most comprehensive method for assessing hearing loss, which can be a side effect of ototoxic medications. These tests can detect both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, providing a detailed profile of hearing function across different frequencies. For clients receiving ototoxic antibiotics, regular monitoring through formal hearing tests is recommended to detect any early signs of hearing impairment and to implement timely interventions.
Choice B reason:
The rubbing fingers test is a rudimentary hearing screening method where the examiner rubs their fingers together near the patient's ear, asking them to indicate when they hear the sound. While this test can be used as a quick check for hearing loss, it is not as sensitive or specific as formal audiometry and may not detect early or mild hearing loss caused by ototoxic drugs.
Choice C reason:
Tuning fork tests, such as the Weber and Rinne tests, are used to differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. These tests can be useful in a clinical setting to provide immediate information about the type of hearing loss; however, they are not as comprehensive as formal hearing tests and may not be sufficient for monitoring ototoxicity.
Choice D reason:
The whisper hearing test involves the examiner whispering words or numbers and asking the patient to repeat them. This test can be useful for detecting significant hearing loss but may not be sensitive enough to detect the early stages of ototoxicity. Moreover, the test's accuracy can be affected by the examiner's voice level and the testing environment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is a critical component of the middle ear. It is a thin membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear and vibrates in response to sound waves. These vibrations are then transmitted to the ossicles within the middle ear, which amplify and carry the sound to the inner ear.
Choice b reason:
The ear lobe is part of the external ear, not the middle ear. It is composed of soft skin and fatty tissue and does not play a role in hearing. The ear lobe serves primarily as a site for body decoration such as earrings.
Choice c reason:
The cochlea is a structure located in the inner ear. It is a spiral-shaped organ that contains the organ of Corti, the sensory organ of hearing. The cochlea converts the mechanical vibrations from the middle ear into nerve impulses that are sent to the brain.
Choice d reason:
The pinna, or auricle, is the visible part of the external ear. It is made of cartilage and skin and functions to capture sound waves and direct them into the ear canal towards the tympanic membrane.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
The oral mucosa is the most reliable area to evaluate for central cyanosis in a client with asthma. Central cyanosis reflects a decrease in arterial oxygenation and is best assessed where the blood flow is high and the skin is thin, which is the case with the oral mucosa. It is less likely to be affected by peripheral factors such as temperature and is therefore a more accurate indicator of oxygen saturation in the central circulation.
Choice b reason:
While ear lobes can show signs of cyanosis, they are not the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis because they are more prone to peripheral cyanosis. Peripheral cyanosis can occur in the ear lobes due to local vasoconstriction or decreased blood flow, which may not reflect central oxygenation levels.
Choice c reason:
The soles of the feet are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis, especially in a client with asthma. The skin on the soles is thicker and has less blood flow compared to the oral mucosa, making it a poor site for assessing central cyanosis. Additionally, the soles can be affected by peripheral factors like pressure and temperature.
Choice d reason:
Conjunctivae are not the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis. While they can show signs of cyanosis, the assessment can be affected by environmental factors and the presence of blood vessels in the conjunctiva that may not accurately reflect central oxygenation levels.
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