A nurse is collecting data from a client who has pyelonephritis and receiving gentamicin via IV infusion. Which of the following manifestation should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of the treatment?
Slurred speech
Constipation
Hypotension
New onset of hearing loss
The Correct Answer is D
A) Slurred speech:
Slurred speech is not a common adverse effect of gentamicin. It could indicate neurological issues, but it is not typically associated with gentamicin use. If this occurs, the nurse should investigate other possible causes, such as a stroke or another neurological condition, rather than attributing it to the gentamicin.
B) Constipation:
Constipation is not a typical adverse effect of gentamicin. While antibiotics can sometimes cause gastrointestinal disturbances, gentamicin is more commonly associated with nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, rather than constipation. If constipation occurs, it is more likely related to other factors such as diet or fluid intake.
C) Hypotension:
While hypotension can be a side effect of many medications, it is not a specific or common adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin is more likely to cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity rather than significant blood pressure changes. However, hypotension could occur in the context of an infection or severe illness and should be monitored, but it is not directly associated with gentamicin.
D) New onset of hearing loss:
This is a well-known adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin belongs to the class of antibiotics known as aminoglycosides, which can cause ototoxicity. New onset of hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is a significant warning sign of ototoxicity, which can occur due to gentamicin use. This side effect should be monitored closely, and if hearing loss occurs, the medication should be reevaluated, and alternatives should be considered.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Decreased platelets: A decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia) is often associated with conditions such as bleeding disorders, bone marrow problems, or certain infections, but it is not a direct indicator of infection. While infections can cause a drop in platelets, this is not a specific or primary indicator of infection.
B) Decreased hemoglobin: A decrease in hemoglobin is typically indicative of anemia, which can result from a variety of causes, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic disease, or blood loss. While anemia can be associated with some infections, it is not a specific indicator of infection.
C) Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): An increased ESR is a nonspecific indicator of inflammation in the body and can be associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory conditions. It is commonly elevated during infections, as the body responds to the inflammatory process. Therefore, an elevated ESR is a useful laboratory finding when suspecting an infection.
D) Increased iron level: Increased iron levels are typically associated with conditions such as hemochromatosis or iron overload, not with infections. During infections, iron levels can actually decrease due to the body's response to restrict iron availability to pathogens.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Prolonged PT/INR:
A prolonged PT/INR is typically associated with liver dysfunction or clotting disorders. While pancreatitis can lead to complications like bleeding, it does not directly cause a prolonged PT/INR. In the case of pancreatitis, the main concerns are related to enzymes, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and potential organ dysfunction, but clotting issues are not a primary diagnostic feature.
B) Elevated lipase:
This is the most characteristic lab finding in pancreatitis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels rise significantly when the pancreas is inflamed. Elevated lipase levels are a key diagnostic indicator of pancreatitis, often seen alongside elevated amylase levels. This finding helps confirm the diagnosis and monitor the severity of the condition.
C) Decreased albumin:
Decreased albumin levels are typically seen in conditions that affect liver function, kidney disease, or malnutrition. While pancreatitis can lead to some degree of malnutrition or fluid shifts, a decreased albumin level is not a specific or expected finding in pancreatitis itself. The focus is more on enzyme levels and possible complications like hypocalcemia or hyperglycemia.
D) Elevated ammonia:
Elevated ammonia levels are generally indicative of liver dysfunction or hepatic encephalopathy, which occurs in severe liver disease. While pancreatitis can cause systemic complications, an elevated ammonia level is not a typical lab finding associated with pancreatitis. Ammonia is more commonly monitored in cases of liver failure or cirrhosis.
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