Which adverse effect should a nurse assess for in a client undergoing chemotherapy with cisplatin?

Cisplatin, a chemotherapy agent commonly used to treat various cancers, is associated with several adverse effects due to its mechanism of action and systemic impact on the body. One significant adverse effect to assess for in clients receiving cisplatin is hearing loss. This drug can cause ototoxicity, leading to damage to the inner ear structures, which can result in hearing impairments.

The potential for hearing loss is particularly important because it may not manifest immediately and can occur even after the treatment has ended. Nurses should monitor clients for any changes in hearing, such as difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds or a sensation of fullness in the ears.

While nausea is also a commonly expected side effect of chemotherapy, it does not specifically highlight the unique risks associated with cisplatin. Similarly, while bloody urine can be linked to other factors, it’s not a primary concern with cisplatin specifically, as the drug is more likely to cause nephrotoxicity rather than direct hematuria. Electrocardiographic changes, though they can occur with various medications, are not a hallmark of cisplatin use and are more related to different drug groups or conditions.

By focusing on the risk of hearing loss, healthcare providers can implement strategies to help minimize this adverse effect