What are the key nursing considerations when administering mydriatics to patients with dark-pigmented eyes?

Discussion Topics, Chapter 33, Anticholinergic Agents

Discussion Topics

Learning Objective(s)

1. Mr. Jackson is an African American man who will undergo eye surgery for a torn retina. The ophthalmologist has ordered ophthalmic atropine drops for mydriasis prior to the procedure.

a. What are the key nursing considerations when administering mydriatics to patients with dark-pigmented eyes?

b. What teaching will Mr. Jackson need related to postoperative mydriasis?

2. Mrs. Nguyen is planning a vacation cruise and is concerned about motion sickness. She has been prescribed a scopolamine patch.

a. Explain the proper method for applying a transdermal patch.

b. What are the potential adverse effects of a scopolamine transdermal patch?