A patient recently diagnosed with glaucoma is to begin drug therapy with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. For which assessment(s) would the nurse need to contact the health care provider? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Electrolyte levels
b. Any signs of gastric symptoms before initiating drug therapy
c. Allergy to sulfonamides
d. Patient history of menopause
e. Elevated IOP levels

Answer 1

ANS: A, C
Baseline electrolyte studies, weight, hydration data, vital signs, and mental status should be obtained before beginning drug therapy. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors should be held and the health care provider notified if the patient is pregnant or allergic to sulfonamides. If the patient is experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, the medication should be administered with milk or food. Menopause is unrelated to the condition of glaucoma or its treatment. Elevated IOP levels are associated with glaucoma and are an expected condition. They do not need to be reported to the health care provider.