An older adult receiving ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) tells the nurse he or she doesn't hear as well as he or she used to. Which statement should the nurse include in the response?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a loop diuretic that can cause hearing loss or tinnitus, especially in high doses or in patients with pre-existing hearing impairment. The nurse should report this new symptom to the healthcare provider to evaluate if the dose or medication needs to be adjusted or discontinued. Option A addresses dehydration, which could also cause hearing loss, but does not address the potential medication side effect. Option C is irrelevant, as the duration of the symptom does not change the course of action. Option D is a good follow-up action, but the priority is to report the symptom to the healthcare provider first.

An Older Adult Receiving Ethacrynic Acid (Edecrin) Tells the Nurse