What it means
A class of antibiotics that stop bacteria from making proteins. It includes gentamicinjen-tuh-MY-sinAn aminoglycoside antibiotic, usually given IV or IM, used for serious infections caused by certain bacteria.Full entry , tobramycin, amikacin, streptomycin and neomycin. They are used for serious infections, often with other antibiotics. Their main dangers are damage to the kidneys (nephrotoxicity) and to the inner ear, which can cause hearing loss and balance problems (ototoxicity).
For the nurse
Follow blood levels (peak and trough) as ordered, and check kidney function, urine output and hearing. Teach the client to report ringing in the ears, hearing loss or dizziness. The risk is higher in older adults and with other drugs that harm the kidneys.
At a glance
| Drug class | aminoglycoside antibiotic |
|---|---|
| Also written | aminoglycosides |
Related terms
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
gram-negative
Describes bacteria that stain pink or red with the Gram stain because of the way their cell wall is built.
gentamicin
An aminoglycoside antibiotic, usually given IV or IM, used for serious infections caused by certain bacteria.