The nurse is monitoring a client receiving gentamicin.
Which of the following would the nurse assess as potential toxic effects of this medication?
Pseudomembranous colitis and crystalluria.
Headaches, vertigo, and tinnitus.
Headache and potassium 3.5 mg/dL.
Hypoglycemia and cardiac dysrhythmias.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Pseudomembranous colitis and crystalluria are not typically associated with gentamicin use.
Choice B rationale
Gentamicin can cause ototoxicity, which can manifest as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and hearing loss. Headaches can also occur as a side effect of gentamicin.
Choice C rationale
While gentamicin can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), which could potentially affect electrolyte levels, a potassium level of 3.5 mg/dL is within the normal range. Therefore, this would not typically be assessed as a toxic effect of gentamicin.
Choice D rationale
Hypoglycemia and cardiac dysrhythmias are not typically associated with gentamicin use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A serum fasting glucose of 101 mg/dL is slightly above the normal range (70-100 mg/dL), indicating a possible prediabetes condition. However, it is not a contraindication for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count of 160,000 uL is within the normal range (150,000-450,000 uL). Therefore, it is not a contraindication for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Choice C rationale
A hemoglobin level of 13.6 g/dL is within the normal range for both men (13.5-17.5 g/dL) and women (12.0-15.5 g/dL). Thus, it is not a contraindication for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Choice D rationale
A serum creatinine level of 2.5 mg/dL is above the normal range (0.6-1.2 mg/dL for men, 0.5- 1.1 mg/dL for women), indicating impaired kidney function. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is contraindicated in patients with severe renal insufficiency.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
When a patient is informed about a serious diagnosis like breast cancer and the need for a mastectomy, it is common for them to experience a range of emotions, including sadness, fear, and anxiety. As a nurse, providing emotional support and creating a safe space for the patient to express their feelings is crucial. Offering to be there for the patient if they want to talk acknowledges their emotional distress and provides comfort.
Choice B rationale
Asking the patient why they are upset may come across as insensitive or dismissive. The patient has just received a life-changing diagnosis, and their emotional reaction is completely normal and expected. It’s important to provide support and empathy rather than questioning their feelings.
Choice C rationale
Telling the patient that everything will be alright and there is no need to cry may seem comforting, but it can actually invalidate the patient’s feelings. It’s important to acknowledge the patient’s emotions and allow them to express their feelings without judgment.
Choice D rationale
Telling the patient that they will recover may be seen as providing false reassurance. While it’s important to maintain hope, it’s also crucial to be honest and realistic with the patient about their diagnosis and treatment.
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