The practical nurse (PN) is providing care for a client who is receiving an aminoglycoside to treat a bacterial infection.
To assess for signs of ototoxicity, which action should the PN take?
Check for changes in vision.
Monitor the client's hearing.
Observe the skin for a rash.
Measure the urinary output.
The Correct Answer is B
This is the correct answer because it is the best way to assess for signs of ototoxicity, which is a potential adverse effect of aminoglycosides. Ototoxicity is the damage or injury to the inner ear or auditory nerve caused by certain drugs or chemicals. It can result in hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, or balance problems. Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics that are effective against gram-negative bacteria, but they can also cause ototoxicity by interfering with the function of the hair cells in the cochlea. The practical nurse (PN) should monitor the client's hearing by asking about any changes in hearing acuity, ringing in the ears, or difficulty understanding speech. The PN should also perform a hearing test using a tuning fork or an audiometer if available. The PN should report any signs of ototoxicity to the health care provider and discontinue the aminoglycoside as ordered.
a) Check for changes in vision.
This is not the correct answer because it is not related to ototoxicity. Vision is the ability to see and perceive objects and colors using the eyes and the brain. Vision may be affected by various factors, such as age, genetics, eye diseases, injuries, infections, or medications. However, aminoglycosides do not cause vision problems or impairments. The PN should check for changes in vision in a client who is receiving other drugs that can cause ocular toxicity, such as ethambutol, chloroquine, or digoxin.
c) Observe the skin for a rash.
This is not the correct answer because it is not related to ototoxicity. A rash is a change in the color, texture, or appearance of the skin that may be caused by various factors, such as allergies, infections, inflammation, or medications. A rash may present as redness, itching, swelling, blisters, bumps, or scales.
Aminoglycosides can cause skin reactions such as rash or urticaria in some clients who are hypersensitive or allergic to them. The PN should observe the skin for a rash in a client who is receiving an aminoglycoside and report any signs of an allergic reaction to the health care provider. However, a rash is not a sign of ototoxicity.
d) Measure the urinary output.
This is not the correct answer because it is not related to ototoxicity. Urinary output is the amount of urine produced and excreted by the kidneys and bladder. It is an indicator of renal function and fluid balance. The normal range for urinary output is 0.5 to 1 mL/kg/hour for adults. Urinary output may be affected by various factors, such as fluid intake, dehydration, diuretics, kidney disease, or medications. Aminoglycosides can cause nephrotoxicity, which is another potential adverse effect of these drugs. Nephrotoxicity is the damage or injury to the kidneys caused by certain drugs or chemicals. It can impair the kidneys' ability to filter waste products from the blood, resulting in reduced urine production and oliguria. The PN should measure the urinary output in a client who is receiving an aminoglycoside and report any signs of nephrotoxicity to the health care provider. However, urinary output is not a sign of ototoxicity
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the UAP to apply a warm blanket and massage the client's back is the appropriate intervention in response to the client's complaints of feeling dizzy and cold during a fecal impaction removal procedure. These symptoms suggest a vasovagal response, which can be managed by keeping the client warm and providing comfort. This intervention helps increase blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting a gloved finger into the rectum and massaging the rectal sphincter is not the first-line intervention when a client complains of feeling dizzy and cold during a fecal impaction removal. This invasive procedure should be reserved for cases where other interventions have failed, and it is necessary to complete the impaction removal.
Choice C rationale:
Stopping the procedure and observing for a reduction in symptoms before continuing is a reasonable approach, but it does not address the immediate discomfort and distress the client is experiencing. Providing comfort measures, such as applying a warm blanket and massaging the client's back, should be the initial response.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to take slow, deep breaths while continuing the procedure may not be effective in addressing the client's symptoms of dizziness and coldness. The client may require immediate comfort measures to stabilize their condition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tetracycline antibiotics can form insoluble complexes with calcium, reducing their absorption when taken together. Therefore, advising the client to continue taking calcium supplements with food while on tetracycline therapy is not recommended as it may decrease the effectiveness of the antibiotic.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should advise the client to avoid taking calcium supplements while on tetracycline therapy. Calcium-containing products (such as supplements, dairy products, and antacids) should be taken at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline administration to minimize the interference with drug absorption.
Choice C rationale:
Taking calcium supplements with tetracycline, even with plenty of water, can still lead to reduced drug absorption due to the formation of insoluble complexes. Therefore, this advice is not appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should recommend that the client take calcium supplements at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline. This approach ensures that the client receives the full therapeutic benefit of the antibiotic while still meeting their calcium needs separately.
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