Question

An elderly client tells the nurse that her ears have been "ringing" ever since the doctor started her on some new medication. Which of the client's medications is considered to be ototoxic? A. Amoxil (amoxicillin) B. K-Dur (potassium) C. B12 (cyanocobalamine) D. Tegretol (carbamazepine)

Short answer

A. Amoxil (amoxicillin) B. K-Dur (potassium) C. B12 (cyanocobalamine) D. Tegretol (carbamazepine) Answer: D. Tegretol (carbamazepine)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the terms

Ototoxicity refers to an adverse effect caused by some medications that can cause damage to the inner ear which can result in symptoms like tinnitus (ringing in the ears), balance issues, and hearing loss. In order to answer the question, we must consider the given medications and determine which one could have ototoxic potential.

Research on each medication

Look up information on the medications listed and analyze the potential side effects and ototoxicity. The four medications mentioned in this exercise are: * Amoxil (amoxicillin) - an antibiotic * K-Dur (potassium) - a mineral supplement * B12 (cyanocobalamine) - a vitamin supplement * Tegretol (carbamazepine) - an anticonvulsant medication

Identify ototoxic medication

After researching the side effects and potential ototoxicity of each medication, we can conclude that: * Amoxil (amoxicillin) - generally does not cause ototoxicity * K-Dur (potassium) - not known for ototoxic side effects * B12 (cyanocobalamine) - not ototoxic * Tegretol (carbamazepine) - can be ototoxic in some cases

Select the ototoxic medication

From the above analysis, it is clear that Tegretol (carbamazepine) is the medication that is considered to be ototoxic among the given options. The correct answer is: D. Tegretol (carbamazepine)

Key concepts

NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam is a crucial step in a nursing student's career, as this examination is essential to earn a nursing license in the United States.
One must understand various aspects of nursing, including pharmacology. A common topic covered is the identification of ototoxic medications—a critical competency, as nurses must recognize adverse effects and educate patients accordingly.
To prepare for questions on ototoxicity, students should familiarize themselves with high-risk medications, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics, and certain antineoplastic drugs. Strategies for exam preparation include mastering content through practice questions and understanding how to apply critical thinking skills to scenarios that involve medication side effects.

• Review pharmacology content thoroughly, focusing on drug classes and side effects.
• Practice scenario-based questions similar to those on the NCLEX-RN.
• Use study resources specifically designed for the NCLEX-RN.
• Participate in study groups to discuss and clarify doubts.

Nurses play a significant role in monitoring for adverse reactions and providing education on medication safety which is why this topic is fundamental for NCLEX-RN exam preparation.

Tinnitus and Medications

Tinnitus, often described as ringing in the ears, can be distressing and may result from various causes, including the use of certain medications.
Understanding the relationship between tinnitus and medications is important for nurses, as they are on the front lines of patient education and care. Ototoxic drugs can damage the inner ear, leading to tinnitus or even conditions like hearing loss or balance problems.
Patient assessments should always include a thorough medication history, with attention to drugs known for ototoxicity. Nurses should be vigilant for symptoms of tinnitus in patients taking ototoxic drugs and report these findings promptly. Educating patients about the risk factors and symptoms of drug-induced tinnitus is crucial for prompt intervention and medication review.

• Identify medications associated with ototoxicity.
• Educate patients on recognizing early signs of tinnitus.
• Encourage patients to report new or worsening tinnitus immediately.

Patients experiencing tinnitus may require further evaluation and possible medication adjustment, and therefore, a nurse's awareness of the medication-tinnitus link is essential.

Medication Side Effects

Awareness of medication side effects is a fundamental aspect of nursing care and patient safety. Nurses must have comprehensive knowledge of not just the therapeutic effects but also potential adverse reactions to medications.
Medication side effects can range from mild to severe, and in the case of ototoxic drugs, the effects can be irreversible. It is essential for nursing professionals to understand the mechanisms by which drugs can cause side effects, including ototoxicity, and to monitor patients accordingly.
By regularly reviewing patients' medication profiles and observing for any new symptoms, nurses can detect side effects early and intervene promptly. Documenting and reporting side effects plays a critical role in patient care and also informs decisions about ongoing medication therapy.

• Understand the spectrum of adverse drug reactions.
• Monitor patients for signs of ototoxicity and other side effects.
• Document and communicate any adverse reactions with the healthcare team.

The ability to anticipate and manage medication side effects is an integral skill and contributes to a nurse's competence and confidence in delivering patient-centered care.