The nurse is reviewing her hospitalized client's medications and sees that he is on both a cephalosporin and an aminoglycoside. The nurse knows that this combination of antibiotics increases the client's risk for:
Seizures.
nephrotoxicity.
hearing loss.
Hepatotoxicity.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Seizures: Some antibiotics, especially cephalosporins, can lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures, especially in individuals prone to seizures or those with a history of epilepsy.
B. Nephrotoxicity: Both cephalosporins and aminoglycosides have the potential to harm the kidneys. When used together, their nephrotoxic effects can be additive, increasing the risk of kidney problems in patients.
C. Hearing Loss: Aminoglycosides, a class of antibiotics that includes drugs like gentamicin, are well-known for their potential to cause hearing loss, especially when used in high doses or for prolonged periods. This effect is due to their toxic impact on the hair cells in the inner ear.
D. Hepatotoxicity: Hepatotoxicity refers to liver damage caused by medications. Some antibiotics, including certain cephalosporins, can have hepatotoxic effects, potentially harming the liver. Monitoring liver function is important when these drugs are used.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Dermatitis and headaches: Prednisone use can sometimes cause skin issues, but dermatitis is not a common side effect. Headaches can also occur, but they are not specific to long-term prednisone therapy.
B. Heart failure and headaches: Prednisone does not directly cause heart failure. Headaches can occur but are not specific indicators of prednisone side effects.
C. Hyperglycemia and osteoporosis: Prednisone can lead to elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) and increased bone loss (osteoporosis) when used long-term. Regular monitoring is essential to manage these potential side effects.
D. Weight loss and hypoglycemia: Prednisone can cause weight gain rather than weight loss. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is not a common side effect of prednisone; it typically causes hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) instead.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Aminoglycosides: Aminoglycosides are a different class of antibiotics. They do not have cross-sensitivity with penicillin. People who are allergic to penicillin can usually take aminoglycosides without a problem.
B. Erythromycins: Erythromycins are macrolide antibiotics. They are not related to penicillin structurally, so there is no cross-sensitivity between penicillin and erythromycins. People allergic to penicillin can generally take erythromycin without issues.
C. Quinolones: Quinolones, also known as fluoroquinolones, are a different class of antibiotics. They do not share a structural similarity with penicillin, so there is usually no cross-sensitivity between penicillin and quinolones. People allergic to penicillin can usually take quinolones without problems.
D. Cephalosporins: Cephalosporins are beta-lactam antibiotics, just like penicillins. They have a similar chemical structure to penicillins, which can lead to cross-sensitivity. Individuals who are allergic to penicillin might also have an allergic reaction to cephalosporins due to this structural resemblance. However, it's important to note that not all cephalosporins are the same, and the risk of cross-reactivity varies among different generations of cephalosporins. Healthcare providers need to assess the specific situation and choose an appropriate antibiotic if there is a known penicillin allergy.
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