Prior to administering a beta blocker to a client with glaucoma, the nurse should assess for which coexisting health problem that would place the client at increased risk of adverse events?

Question

1. Type 2 diabetes mellitus
2. Sleep apnea
3. Cardiovascular disorders
4. Rheumatoid arthritis

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: A client with diabetes would not be adversely affected if prescribed a beta blocker for treatment of glaucoma.
Rationale 2: A client with sleep apnea would not necessarily be adversely affected by beta blockers.
Rationale 3: Beta blockers used to treat glaucoma are minimally absorbed but could cause adverse cardiovascular events such as bradycardia or heart failure and asthma if the beta blocker is not cardioselective.
Rationale 4: Beta blockers would not adversely affect clients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Global Rationale: Beta blockers used to treat glaucoma are minimally absorbed but could cause adverse cardiovascular events such as bradycardia or heart failure and asthma if the beta blocker is not cardioselective. Clients with diabetes, sleep apnea or rheumatoid arthritis will not necessarily be adversely affected by these beta blockers.