Page 1982 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

1. Assess vital signs.
2. Assess for risk of injury.
3. Assess the client for the degree of diminished vision.
4. Monitor for side and adverse effects and toxic effects.
5. Monitor for postural hypotension, and instruct the
client to change positions slowly.
6. Assess breath sounds for wheezes and rhonchi,
because some medications can cause bronchospasms
and increased bronchial secretions.
7. Maintain oral hygiene because of the increase in
salivation.
8. Have atropine sulfate available as an antidote for
pilocarpine.
9. Instruct the client or family regarding the correct
administration of eye medications.
10. Instruct the client not to stop the medication suddenly.
11. Instruct the client to avoid activities such as driving
while vision is impaired.

Instruct the client with glaucoma to read labels on over-the-

counter medications and to avoid atropine-like medications, because
atropine will increase intraocular pressure.
VIII. β-Adrenergic Blocker Eye Medications (see Box 57-5)
A. Description
1. These medications reduce intraocular pressure by
decreasing sympathetic impulses and decreasing
aqueous humor production without affecting
accommodation or pupil size.
2. These medications are used to treat glaucoma.
3. These medications are contraindicated in the client
with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, because systemic absorption can cause
increased airway resistance.
4. Use these medications with caution in the client
receiving oral beta blockers.

B. Side and adverse effects

1. Ocular irritation
2. Visual disturbances
3. Bradycardia
4. Hypotension
5. Bronchospasm

C. Interventions

1. Monitor vital signs, especially blood pressure and
pulse, before administering medication.

1982