The practical nurse (PN) is providing care for a client who is receiving an aminoglycoside to treat a bacterial infection. To assess for signs of ototoxicity, which action should the PN take?

A. Check for changes in vision: Visual changes are not associated with aminoglycoside toxicity. Monitoring vision does not provide relevant information about ototoxic effects of the medication. B. Monitor the client's hearing: Aminoglycosides can cause ototoxicity, affecting the cochlea and vestibular system. Monitoring for hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance disturbances allows early detection and intervention to prevent permanent auditory damage. C. Observe the skin for a rash: Skin rashes are more indicative of allergic reactions rather than ototoxicity. While monitoring for hypersensitivity is important, it does not assess the auditory or vestibular effects of aminoglycosides. D. Measure the urinary output: Although aminoglycosides can be nephrotoxic, measuring urine output assesses renal function, not ototoxicity. Monitoring hearing is the priority when evaluating for auditory side effects.