Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Gentamicin as follows:
- Patients with history of diminished hearing and ototoxicity are at increased risk for hearing loss with Gentamicin. Individuals taking Gentamicin must observe a close watch regarding the same and report any changes with hearing to the physician immediately. Observe compliance with any periodical evaluation of auditory functions ordered.
- Patients with history of poor balance are at increased risk for exacerbation of balance issues with Gentamicin, leading to falls and accidents. Gentamicin intake can cause vestibular damage and lead to exacerbation of the balance disorder. Senior citizens with poor balance taking Gentamicin must observe a close watch regarding the same and report any changes with balance to the physician immediately.
- Gentamicin should be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of motor weakness and neuromuscular disorders, such as, myasthenia gravis and Parkinson’s disease. These individuals are at increased risk for slowdown of impulse transmission at neuromuscular junction, resulting in increased motor weakness, muscle twitching, and exacerbation of muscle spasms. Any symptoms of increased motor weakness and exacerbation of fatigue must be immediately reported to the physician.
- Gentamicin intake can increase the risk for skin rash, ranging from mild to severe exfoliating rash and blisters. Individuals with history of extreme skin rashes and taking Gentamicin should be aware of this response and observe a close watch on the same.
