When using aminoglycosides, which of the following should be monitored?

When using aminoglycosides, monitoring hearing and renal function is crucial due to the potential for ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity associated with these medications. Aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin, are mostly cleared by the kidneys, and thus, impaired renal function can lead to increased levels of the drug, elevating the risk of adverse effects.

Ototoxicity may manifest as tinnitus or hearing loss, which necessitates careful auditory monitoring, particularly in patients receiving prolonged therapy or those who have existing renal impairment. Additionally, regular assessment of kidney function, typically via serum creatinine and calculated creatinine clearance, helps ensure that dosages can be appropriately adjusted to prevent toxicity while maintaining therapeutic effects.

Monitoring blood glucose levels, pulmonary function, and cardiac rhythm does not have a direct correlation with the use of aminoglycosides, making them less pertinent to this specific medication group. Monitoring strategies should be focused on identifying and preventing the potential systemic side effects that can arise from aminoglycoside use.