A client taking large doses of acetylsalicylic acid for rheumatoid arthritis should report which signs or symptoms of ototoxicity?

A client taking large doses of acetylsalicylic acid for rheumatoid arthritis should report which signs or symptoms of ototoxicity?

• A. Nausea and vomiting
• B. Tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness, and ataxia
• C. Rash
• D. Headache

Answer: (B)

Ototoxicity from high-dose aspirin arises when salicylates affect the inner ear, leading to sensory changes in hearing and balance. The hallmark signs are tinnitus and hearing loss, which are often accompanied by dizziness or balance problems; at times, ataxia can occur with more pronounced vestibular or CNS involvement. This combination directly reflects the ear-related toxicity being tested. Nausea and vomiting are common aspirin-related GI symptoms, rash points to hypersensitivity, and headache is a nonspecific side effect, so they do not specifically indicate ototoxicity.

Ototoxicity from high-dose aspirin arises when salicylates affect the inner ear, leading to sensory changes in hearing and balance. The hallmark signs are tinnitus and hearing loss, which are often accompanied by dizziness or balance problems; at times, ataxia can occur with more pronounced vestibular or CNS involvement. This combination directly reflects the ear-related toxicity being tested. Nausea and vomiting are common aspirin-related GI symptoms, rash points to hypersensitivity, and headache is a nonspecific side effect, so they do not specifically indicate ototoxicity.