A 6-year-old child is prescribed tetracycline for a severe infection. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for during therapy?

A. Ototoxicity.: Ototoxicity is more commonly associated with aminoglycosides such as gentamicin or vancomycin, not tetracyclines. These drugs can damage the auditory nerve, but tetracyclines do not affect hearing or balance mechanisms in the inner ear. B. Tooth discoloration.: Tetracyclines can bind to calcium in developing teeth and bones, causing permanent yellow-gray or brown discoloration. This effect is especially concerning in children under 8 years old, whose teeth and bones are still forming, making the drug contraindicated for pediatric use unless absolutely necessary. C. Nephrotoxicity.: Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) can occur, especially with outdated tetracycline preparations or in patients with pre-existing renal issues, but it is not the primary reason for the drug's contraindication in children under 8 years old. D. Hyperglycemia.: Tetracyclines have no known effect on blood glucose regulation. Hyperglycemia may occur with corticosteroids or certain antipsychotics but is not a recognized adverse reaction associated with tetracycline therapy.