Question

A client with a gram negative infection is being treated with an amino glycoside. what assessment should the nurse prioritize during treatment.

Pharmacology question

Answer 1

ANSWER:-

Aminoglycosides are antibiotics used to treat mainly infections caused by gram- negative microorganisms. Aminoglycosides are bactericidal(kills bacteria) .They binds to specific receptor proteins on bacterial ribosomes and interfere with protein synthesis which is essential for multiplication and result in death of the bacteria.

* Aminoglycosides are nephrotoxic(causing toxic effects to kidney and damage kidney) and ototoxic( damage to ears and hearing);so the nurse should prioritize the assessment for -

* Renal functions- obtain baseline renal function tests( BUN,creatinine) and monitor serum creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen(BUN) levels regularly,

*Monitor intake and output chart to identify any decreased output,increased thirst etc,

* If the patient is dehydrated correct dehydration before the therapy.

* Ensure adequate fluid intake by the patient.

* Ototoxicity- assess and check for any hearing impairment and feeling of dizziness,tinnitus( hearing ringing sound in the ear) ,reduced hearing etc.