A patient asks the nurse to define hypersensitivity reaction. The nurse begins by telling the patient that a hypersensitivity reaction is also called:

A. A Vitamin C deficiency:

While a Vitamin C deficiency can lead to oral health issues such as bleeding gums or scurvy, it is less likely to present with bright red oral mucous membranes and white patches. Vitamin C deficiency typically manifests with other symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and joint pain.

B. Dehydration:

Dehydration can cause dry mouth and oral discomfort, but it is less likely to present with bright red oral mucous membranes and white patches. Dehydration may also result in a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth rather than soreness with white patches.

C. Poor oral hygiene:

Poor oral hygiene can lead to various oral health problems, including gingivitis and dental caries, but it is less likely to cause bright red oral mucous membranes with white patches. Poor oral hygiene typically results in plaque accumulation, gum inflammation, and dental decay rather than the specific symptoms described.

D. A superinfection:

This is the correct option. A superinfection occurs when opportunistic microorganisms, such as fungi or resistant bacteria, proliferate and cause infection following antibiotic therapy. Penicillin, like other antibiotics, can disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms in the mouth, allowing opportunistic pathogens to flourish and lead to conditions such as oral thrush (caused by Candida albicans) or oral candidiasis. The presence of bright red oral mucous membranes with white patches suggests the possibility of a superinfection, which warrants immediate attention from the primary care provider for further evaluation and management.

A. Changes in mental status:

Changes in mental status are not typically associated with ototoxicity caused by gentamicin. Mental status changes may indicate other systemic effects or adverse reactions, but they are not specific to ototoxicity.

B. Complaints that he is unable to hear the television:

This complaint is highly indicative of ototoxicity. Hearing loss, particularly high-frequency hearing loss, is a common symptom of ototoxicity caused by drugs like gentamicin. Difficulty hearing sounds such as the television, especially at typical volume levels, suggests a potential problem with hearing function.

C. An increase in the BUN and creatinine:

An increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels may indicate kidney damage, which can occur as a result of nephrotoxicity associated with gentamicin use. While nephrotoxicity is a known adverse effect of gentamicin, it is not specific to ototoxicity.

D. Tingling of the extremities:

Tingling of the extremities is not typically associated with ototoxicity caused by gentamicin. This symptom may suggest other neurological or systemic effects but is not specific to ototoxicity.