The physician has prescribed phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine) for an elderly patient. What is an important nursing assessment prior to administration of this drug?
1. A history of type 1 diabetes mellitus
2. A history of narrow angle glaucoma
3. A history of dizziness
4. A history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Vasoconstrictors may increase intraocular pressure, so the nurse should assess for narrow angle glaucoma. Dizziness is a general symptom and not specific to this drug. Type 1 diabetes mellitus is not adversely affected by administration of a vasoconstrictor drug. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is not adversely affected by administration of a vasoconstrictor drug.
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