Author Question: A patient with ocular hypertension will begin using brimonidine Alphagan for long-term reduction of ... (Read 61 times)

sdfghj · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient with ocular hypertension will begin using brimonidine Alphagan for long-term reduction of increased ocular pressure (IOP). The nurse teaches the patient about this medication.

Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching? a. After using the drops, I should wait 15 minutes before putting in contacts.
b. Because this is a topical medication, drowsiness will not occur.
c. I will not have cardiovascular side effects when using this medication.
d. If my eyes begin to itch or turn red, it means I am allergic to this drug.

Question 2

A patient has been using latanoprost Xalatan ophthalmic drops. The patient tells the nurse, My eyes used to be greenish-brown, but now they're brown. What will the nurse do?

a. Reassure the patient that this is a harmless side effect.
b. Report this toxic effect to the patient's provider.
c. Tell the patient that this indicates an in-creased risk of migraine headaches.
d. Tell the patient that this effect will reverse when the medication is withdrawn.

Joc · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Patients using this drug should wait 15 minutes before putting in contacts, because soft contacts can absorb the drug. Even though the medication is topical, it can be absorbed systemically, causing systemic side effects such as drowsiness or lowered blood pressure. Itching and hyper-emia may occur and do not indicate allergy.

Answer to Question 2

This is great. Thanks