Final answer:
When a patient is treated with high-dose cytarabine, healthcare professionals monitor for signs of toxicity, including c) somnolence and mild ataxia.
Step-by-step explanation:
When monitoring a patient undergoing treatment with high-dose cytarabine, healthcare professionals look for various signs of toxicity to evaluate the patient's response to the medication. Among these signs, somnolence and mild ataxia (option c) are important indicators to be aware of.
Other symptoms of toxicity that may be observed include headache, dizziness, fever, chills, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, and in more severe cases, jaundice, mucosal hemorrhaging, seizures, and even shock. Moreover, manifestations such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, cough, and light sensitivity can also occur, potentially affecting motor coordination, breathing, and heart function in acute situations. It is essential to promptly recognize these adverse effects to manage them effectively and ensure patient safety during therapy with cytotoxic drugs like cytarabine.