To assess for potential damage to the eighth cranial nerve, a nurse should observe the client receiving streptomycin for what symptom?

The eighth cranial nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, is primarily responsible for hearing and balance. It has two main functions: the cochlear branch which is involved in hearing, and the vestibular branch which helps with balance. Streptomycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is known to be ototoxic, meaning it can cause damage to the auditory and vestibular structures, potentially leading to hearing loss and balance issues.

Observing for symptoms of vertigo is crucial when assessing for damage to the eighth cranial nerve in patients receiving streptomycin. Vertigo can signal that the vestibular function of the eighth cranial nerve is compromised, possibly due to the ototoxic effects of the medication. This aligns closely with the function of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.

In contrast, facial paralysis is associated with the seventh cranial nerve, impaired vision relates to the second cranial nerve, and difficulty swallowing is often tied to the ninth and tenth cranial nerves. These choices do not directly relate to the assessment of the eighth cranial nerve, making them less relevant when considering the effects of streptomycin specifically on cranial nerve function. Thus, monitoring for vert