The nurse monitors a client for signs and symptoms of aspirin toxicity. Which assessment finding indicates possible aspirin toxicity?

A. Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears is an early and classic sign of salicylate toxicity. Aspirin stimulates the auditory nerve and cochlea, leading to tinnitus, which often appears before more severe toxicity such as metabolic acidosis or central nervous system changes. B. Vertigo: While dizziness may occur with many conditions, it is not a hallmark or early indicator of aspirin toxicity. It lacks the specificity needed to strongly suggest salicylate poisoning compared to auditory symptoms like tinnitus. C. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and sclera is associated with liver dysfunction or hemolysis rather than aspirin toxicity. Although severe toxicity may affect multiple organs, jaundice is not a typical or early clinical manifestation. D. Proteinuria: The presence of protein in urine suggests renal impairment or glomerular damage. Aspirin toxicity primarily affects the respiratory and metabolic systems, so proteinuria is not a characteristic finding in this condition.