A male client has been receiving the antibiotic gentamicin sulfate IV piggyback every 12 hours for several days. Which observations by the nurse indicate that the client may be experiencing an adverse effect of gentamicin?
Hearing has decreased.
Decreased blood urea nitrogen.
White blood cells count 6,000/mm3 (6x109/L).
Reports of photophobia.
The Correct Answer is A
Gentamicin sulfate is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that can cause ototoxicity, which is damage to the inner ear leading to hearing loss or balance problems. Therefore, a decrease in hearing is an indication that the client may be experiencing an adverse effect of gentamicin.
Option b, decreased blood urea nitrogen, is not an adverse effect of gentamicin, but it may indicate improvement in kidney function, which can be a positive outcome of treatment.
Option c, a white blood cell count of 6,000/mm3 (6x109/L), is within the normal range and is not necessarily an adverse effect of gentamicin.
Option d, photophobia, is not a common adverse effect of gentamicin and may indicate a different condition or medication effect.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is:
a. Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.
d. Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.
Choice A: Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.
Ciprofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, can cause tendinitis and tendon rupture. This risk is higher in older adults, those on corticosteroid therapy, and those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants. Reporting any tendon pain or swelling immediately is crucial to prevent severe complications.
Choice B: Use NSAIDS to relieve mid joint aches and pains caused by the medication.
This is not recommended. Using NSAIDs with ciprofloxacin can increase the risk of central nervous system effects, including seizures. Therefore, it is not advised to use NSAIDs to relieve joint aches and pains caused by ciprofloxacin.
Choice C: Crush and mix the tablets with pudding if you have trouble swallowing the tablets.
Ciprofloxacin tablets should not be crushed. Crushing the tablets can affect the drug’s effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. If swallowing is an issue, the healthcare provider should be consulted for alternative forms of the medication.
Choice D: Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.
Ciprofloxacin can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, leading to severe sunburns. Patients are advised to limit their exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds while taking this medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A carbamazepine level of 8.4 mg/L is within the therapeutic range of 4-12 mg/L. The nurse should administer the evening dose of carbamazepine as prescribed. The nurse should continue to monitor the client’s carbamazepine levels and assess for any side effects of the medication.

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