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 B
Explanation
A. Antibiotics are prescribed according to culture and sensitivity reports:
When antibiotics are prescribed based on specific tests like cultures and sensitivity reports, it ensures that the right antibiotic is chosen for the specific bacteria causing the infection. This practice helps in targeting the infection more effectively, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
B. Patients stop taking an antibiotic after they feel better:
This scenario is problematic. When patients start feeling better, they might assume the infection is completely gone and stop taking antibiotics before the prescribed course is finished. This premature discontinuation can leave some bacteria alive, which may develop resistance to the antibiotic used. This practice is a significant contributor to antibiotic resistance.
C. Antibiotics are taken with ascorbic acid (vitamin C):
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) doesn't have a significant impact on antibiotic resistance. It is not a factor contributing to antibiotic resistance.
D. Antibiotics are taken with water or juice:
Whether antibiotics are taken with water or juice doesn’t directly influence antibiotic resistance. Proper hydration is essential to support the body's overall health, but it doesn't impact the development of antibiotic resistance.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction can manifest in various ways, including rash, itching, and difficulty breathing. However, the specific symptoms described, along with the context of vancomycin administration, point to red man syndrome in this case.
Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where damaged muscle tissue breaks down and releases a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream. This can cause kidney damage, but the symptoms described do not align with rhabdomyolysis.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome: Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a severe skin reaction that can cause skin and mucous membranes to blister, peel, and can be life-threatening. While it can present with rash and other skin symptoms, the symptoms mentioned in the scenario are more characteristic of red man syndrome.
Red man syndrome: As mentioned earlier, red man syndrome is an allergic reaction to vancomycin characterized by flushing, rash, pruritus, and urticaria (hives), along with rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. It is specific to vancomycin and can be prevented or minimized by slowing down the infusion rate and administering antihistamines.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today