A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a prescription for gentamicin. Which of the following should the nurse include as an adverse effect of this medication?
Urinary frequency
Constipation
Hypertension
Tinnitus
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should include tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as an adverse effect of gentamicin in the client's teaching. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections. One of the potential side effects of gentamicin is damage to the inner ear, which can lead to tinnitus.
Tinnitus is a concerning symptom as it may indicate ototoxicity, which is damage to the structures of the inner ear responsible for hearing and balance. If the client experiences tinnitus while taking gentamicin, it is essential to notify the healthcare provider immediately to assess the severity of the issue and consider appropriate interventions.
Let's go through the other options and explain why they are not adverse effects of gentamicin:
A. Urinary frequency: Urinary frequency is not a common adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin primarily affects the kidneys, and its main concern is related to potential nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) rather than causing urinary frequency.
B. Constipation: Constipation is not an adverse effect typically associated with gentamicin. Gentamicin is not known to affect the gastrointestinal system or cause constipation.
C. Hypertension: Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not a known adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin primarily affects the kidneys and the inner ear, as mentioned earlier, but it does not significantly impact blood pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should monitor the client receiving long-term treatment with oral doses of prednisone for the development of osteoporosis. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can lead to decreased bone density and increase the risk of fractures. Prolonged use of prednisone can interfere with calcium absorption and increase bone resorption, leading to osteoporosis.
Hypoglycemia (A) is not a common adverse effect of prednisone. In fact, prednisone can cause hyperglycemia and increase the risk of developing diabetes.
Hyperreflexia (B) is not typically associated with prednisone use. Hyperreflexia is an exaggerated reflex response and is not a common adverse effect of corticosteroid therapy.
Inflammatory bowel disease (D) is not an adverse effect of prednisone. In fact, prednisone is often used as a treatment for inflammatory bowel disease to reduce inflammation and symptoms.
Therefore, the nurse should primarily monitor the client for the development of osteoporosis when receiving long-term treatment with oral doses of prednisone.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to treat urinary incontinence. One of the adverse effects of anticholinergic medications is the potential for bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate. Anticholinergic medications can inhibit the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate. Therefore, it is important to assess the client for signs of bradycardia after an unintended higher dose of oxybutynin.
Increased salivation (A) is not an expected adverse effect of oxybutynin. In fact, anticholinergic medications like oxybutynin often have the opposite effect, causing dry mouth and reduced salivation.
Hyperthermia (B) is not a typical adverse effect of oxybutynin. It is more commonly associated with other conditions or medications.
Urinary incontinence (C) is the condition that oxybutynin is intended to treat. It is not an adverse effect but rather the therapeutic effect of the medication.
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