An 11-year-old child with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is to be continued on aspirin medication at home. Before discharge from the hospital, the nurse should teach the child and parents to closely monitor for the toxic effects of this drug, which include:

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Tinnitus

Rationale:

Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, is a common sign of aspirin toxicity. Salicylates, the active ingredient in aspirin, can affect the inner ear and auditory nerve, leading to this symptom.
Monitoring for tinnitus is crucial because it is often one of the first signs of salicylate toxicity. Early detection can help prevent more severe toxic effects.
Parents should be educated to recognize this symptom and seek medical attention if their child experiences it while on aspirin therapy.

Explanation of Other Options:

Hypothermia

Rationale: Hypothermia, a condition where the body temperature drops below normal, is not commonly associated with aspirin toxicity. Aspirin toxicity more frequently causes hyperthermia (increased body temperature) rather than hypothermia.

Jaundice

Rationale: Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, can occur with liver damage. While severe aspirin toxicity can affect the liver, jaundice is not a primary indicator of aspirin toxicity. It is more commonly associated with other conditions such as hepatitis or bile duct obstruction.

Diarrhea

Rationale: Diarrhea is not a typical symptom of aspirin toxicity. While gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and gastric irritation can occur with aspirin use, diarrhea is not a primary concern related to salicylate toxicity.

Conclusion:

Tinnitus is the most indicative sign of aspirin toxicity among the given options. Proper education on recognizing this symptom is essential for the safe management of aspirin therapy in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.