A client receiving gentamicin reports new ringing in the ears and dizziness. Which action should the nurse take?
1Tell the client this is an expected harmless effect.
2Give the dose with an antiemetic.
3Maintain a quiet environment and monitor.
4Hold the medication and notify the provider.✓ Correct answer
Explanation
Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic associated with ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. New-onset tinnitus and dizziness are warning signs of ototoxicity. The nurse should hold the medication and notify the provider immediately to prevent permanent hearing or balance damage. Telling the client the effect is harmless is incorrect and dangerous. Giving the dose with an antiemetic does not address the underlying toxicity and may lead to further injury. Maintaining a quiet environment and monitoring ignores the urgency of reporting a potential adverse drug reaction.
Clinical Judgment Aminoglycoside ear symptoms are toxicity warnings.
Memory Tip Gentamicin: ears and kidneys.
Clinical Practice GuideAminoglycoside monitoring includes renal function, drug levels when ordered, hearing changes, balance symptoms, and infection response.
CautionDo not dismiss tinnitus during aminoglycoside therapy.
Gentamicin — An aminoglycoside antibiotic used for selected serious infections.
Ototoxicity — Medication-related injury to hearing or balance structures.