A nurse is caring for an adult client who reports having trouble getting to sleep at night. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Hearing loss is a known gentamicin ototoxicity effect, damaging cochlear hair cells irreversibly. Scientifically, this aminoglycoside targets the inner ear, causing tinnitus or deafness, a critical adverse reaction to monitor in pyelonephritis treatment per pharmacology evidence.

Choice B reason: Slurred speech suggests neurological issues (e.g., stroke), not gentamicin effects. Scientifically, this drug affects kidneys and ears, not speech centers, making this unrelated to its toxicity profile, which focuses on auditory and renal damage.

Choice C reason: Constipation isn’t linked to gentamicin; it’s more typical of opioids or immobility. Scientifically, this antibiotic’s side effects center on nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, not gastrointestinal motility, rendering this an unlikely adverse reaction in this context.

Choice D reason: Hypotension may occur with rapid IV gentamicin, but it’s less common than ototoxicity. Scientifically, hearing loss is a hallmark toxicity, outweighing transient blood pressure drops, which are manageable and less specific to this drug’s adverse profile.

Choice A reason: Cantaloupe is potassium-rich, about 400 mg per cup, due to its fruit sugar content. It’s unsuitable for low-potassium diets, as it elevates serum levels significantly.

Choice B reason: Orange juice contains around 500 mg potassium per cup, a high amount. Its citric nature doesn’t offset this, making it inappropriate for potassium restriction.

Choice C reason: Sweet potato has over 500 mg potassium per serving, concentrated in its starchy flesh. It’s a poor choice for minimizing potassium in electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D reason: Baked chicken breast offers less than 300 mg potassium per serving, far lower than fruits or tubers. It’s the best option for a low-potassium diet here.