A nurse is caring for a client who has a bacterial infection and is receiving gentamicin. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to minimize the risk of an adverse effect of the medication?
Administer the medicine with food.
Monitor the serum medication levels.
Limit the client’s fluid intake.
Instruct the client to report agitation.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice b. Monitor the serum medication levels.
Choice A rationale:
Administering gentamicin with food is not necessary and does not minimize the risk of adverse effects. Gentamicin is typically given intravenously or intramuscularly, and food does not impact its administration or absorption.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the serum medication levels is crucial when administering gentamicin. Gentamicin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Regular monitoring helps ensure the drug remains within the safe and effective range, reducing the risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.
Choice C rationale:
Limiting the client’s fluid intake is not recommended. Adequate hydration is important to help prevent nephrotoxicity, a known adverse effect of gentamicin. Ensuring the client has sufficient fluid intake can help protect kidney function.
Choice D rationale:
Instructing the client to report agitation is not directly related to minimizing the risk of adverse effects of gentamicin. While it is important for clients to report any unusual symptoms, agitation is not a common adverse effect of gentamicin. Monitoring for signs of nephrotoxicity (e.g., decreased urine output) and ototoxicity (e.g., hearing loss, tinnitus) is more relevant.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice d. I need to apply a sunscreen when I go outside.
Choice A rationale:
Taking over-the-counter antihistamines with dantrolene is not recommended because both can cause drowsiness and increase the risk of side effects.
Choice B rationale:
Dantrolene should be taken regularly as prescribed, not just when spasms are bad, to maintain consistent therapeutic levels and effectiveness.
Choice C rationale:
Muscle strength improvement with dantrolene may take longer than 2 to 3 days. It typically requires a few weeks to see significant benefits.
Choice D rationale:
Dantrolene can cause photosensitivity, making the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, applying sunscreen when going outside is important to prevent sunburn.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rifampin and pyrazinamide can cause liver toxicity, so liver function tests should be monitored regularly while on this medication regimen to ensure that the liver is functioning properly and to detect any potential liver damage early.
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