What symptom should a nurse monitor for in a client receiving intravenous tobramycin sulfate (Tobrex)?

Monitoring for vertigo in a client receiving intravenous tobramycin sulfate is crucial due to the potential side effects associated with aminoglycoside antibiotics. Tobramycin can affect the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance. As a result, patients may experience symptoms like vertigo, dizziness, or tinnitus. These effects can occur due to the drug's ototoxicity, a known risk particularly with higher doses or prolonged use.

While other symptoms like hyperactivity, excessive thirst, and increased fatigue might occur in various clinical scenarios, they are not directly linked to the pharmacological effects of tobramycin. Hyperactivity could be influenced by factors unrelated to the medication, excessive thirst is more associated with conditions like diabetes or side effects from other classes of medications, and increased fatigue is a non-specific symptom that could arise from many different underlying factors, particularly in hospitalized patients. By focusing on vertigo, nurses can catch potential ototoxicity early, ensuring patient safety and appropriate intervention.