Page 1985 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

decrease vitreous humor volume.
B. Side and adverse effects
1. Headache
2. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration
3. Disorientation
4. Electrolyte imbalances

C. Interventions

1. Assess vital signs.
2. Assess visual acuity.
3. Assess for risk of injury.
4. Monitor intake and output.
5. Monitor weight.
6. Monitor for electrolyte imbalances.
7. Increase fluid intake unless contraindicated.
8. Monitor for changes in level of orientation.
XII. Medications to Treat Macular Degeneration
A. Pegaptanib, ranibizumab, bevacizumab, aflibercept, verteporfin
B. Description
1. Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) can be
dry ARMD (atrophic) or wet ARMD (neovascular).
2. Dry ARMD is more common; macular photoreceptors
undergo gradual breakdown, leading to gradual
blurring of central vision.
3. Wet ARMD progresses faster, and macular
degeneration is caused by the growth of new
subretinal blood vessels, which leads to fluid leakage
that lifts the macula and causes permanent injury.
4. Characterized by the presence of drusen (yellow
deposits under the retina).
C. Side and adverse effects
1. Endophthalmitis (eye inflammation caused by
bacterial, viral, or fungal infection)
2. Blurred vision
3. Cataracts
4. Corneal edema
5. Eye discomfort and discharge
6. Conjunctival hemorrhage
7. Increased intraocular pressure
8. Reduced visual acuity
D. Interventions
1. Teach the client about administration of the
medications.
2. Teach the client about the side effects and the need to
notify the PHCP.
XIII. Otic Medication Administration

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