A patient undergoing penicillin therapy shows improvement and states that he is feeling better.
Which of the following interventions is the nurse most likely to perform in such a situation?

Choice A rationale:

Nizatidine is not a proton pump inhibitor; it is an H2 receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the histamine H2 receptors in the stomach, reducing acid production. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work differently by directly inhibiting the proton pump (H+/K+ ATPase) responsible for acid secretion in the stomach.

Choice B rationale:

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). PPIs are drugs that reduce gastric acid production by inhibiting the proton pump (H+/K+ ATPase) in the parietal cells of the stomach. This action is highly effective in treating conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers.

Choice C rationale:

Sucralfate is not a proton pump inhibitor; it is a medication that forms a protective barrier over ulcers and erosions in the stomach and intestines. It does not directly affect acid production.

Choice D rationale:

Misoprostol is not a proton pump inhibitor; it is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analog. It is primarily used to prevent gastric ulcers in individuals who are at high risk due to chronic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. It has a protective effect on the gastric mucosa but does not inhibit acid secretion.

Choice A rationale:

Aminoglycosides are known to have nephrotoxic effects. Nephrotoxicity refers to kidney toxicity, and aminoglycosides can cause damage to the renal tubules, leading to impaired kidney function. The nurse should be alert to this potential toxicity when administering these drugs, as it can result in kidney dysfunction, altered serum creatinine levels, and electrolyte imbalances.

Choice B rationale:

Cardiotoxicity is not typically associated with aminoglycosides. These antibiotics primarily affect the kidneys and the inner ear. There is no direct relationship between aminoglycosides and cardiac toxicity.

Choice C rationale:

Hepatotoxicity refers to liver toxicity and is not a common side effect of aminoglycosides. Aminoglycosides are primarily metabolized in the kidneys and are excreted through urine, making kidney toxicity a more significant concern.

Choice D rationale:

Cytotoxicity is a broad term that refers to the toxicity of cells. Aminoglycosides do not typically cause generalized cytotoxic effects in the body. Their primary toxicities are related to specific organ systems, such as the kidneys and the inner ear.