A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

Exhibits

For each data collection finding, dick to specify if the finding is consistent with ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or Crohn's disease. Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.

A. New onset of hearing loss. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic known for its ototoxic effects, which can lead to irreversible hearing loss or vestibular dysfunction. The drug damages the hair cells in the inner ear, resulting in symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, or difficulty hearing. Clients receiving gentamicin should be closely monitored for auditory changes, as early detection can help prevent worsening damage.
B. Constipation. Gentamicin does not typically affect gastrointestinal motility, making constipation an unlikely adverse effect. It primarily causes nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, with its main targets being the kidneys and inner ear. Gastrointestinal side effects are rare and usually limited to nausea or mild discomfort rather than significant bowel irregularities.
C. Slurred speech. While aminoglycosides can cause neuromuscular blockade in rare cases, slurred speech is not a common adverse effect. More frequently, gentamicin affects the vestibular system, leading to balance disturbances or dizziness rather than impairing speech function. If neuromuscular symptoms develop, the medication should be reassessed to prevent severe complications.
D. Hypotension. Gentamicin does not directly cause hypotension as a primary side effect. Its adverse effects are more commonly associated with kidney damage, ototoxicity, and, in rare cases, neuromuscular paralysis. If a client on gentamicin experiences hypotension, other underlying causes such as sepsis or volume depletion should be considered.

A. Bradycardia is not a common adverse effect of levodopa-carbidopa. Instead, it may sometimes cause tachycardia (increased heart rate) in some patients. Monitoring for cardiovascular changes is essential, but bradycardia is not typically associated with this medication.
B. Hypotension is a documented adverse effect of levodopa-carbidopa. This medication can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting. This finding should be carefully monitored and documented, as it can increase the risk of falls.
C. Constricted pupils are not typically an adverse effect of levodopa-carbidopa. Instead, this medication may cause dilated pupils (mydriasis) as a result of its effects on the autonomic nervous system, particularly if the patient is taking other medications that can affect pupil size.
D. Urinary frequency can occur with levodopa-carbidopa; however, it is not commonly classified as a significant adverse effect. While changes in urinary habits can happen, they are more often related to Parkinson's disease itself rather than the medication specifically. Therefore, urinary frequency should be monitored but is not a primary concern compared to hypotension.