21. A nurse is to give meperidine (Demerol) 75 mg IV and scopolamine 0.3 mg IV preoperatively to a client with a history of glaucoma. Which action should be taken by the nurse?
21. A nurse is to give meperidine (Demerol) 75 mg IV and scopolamine 0.3 mg IV preoperatively to a client with a history of glaucoma. Which action should be taken by the nurse?
. Give the drugs as ordered.
. Teach the client the side effects.
. Dim the lights and raise side rails after injection.
. Do not give the drugs and call the physician.
Test-Taking Tip
Look for a pattern—three choices relate to giving the drug and one raises concern.
Content Area: Adult Health, Sensory; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Contraindications
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Answer 1 is incorrect because scopolamine should not be given. Answer 2 is incorrect because it indicates that the drugs were given, whereas scopolamine is contraindicated. Answer 3 is incorrect because the drugs should not be given. (These actions would be appropriate if the drugs were given.) Answer 4 is correct because clients with glaucoma should not receive anticholinergic drugs (e.g., scopolamine), which dilate the pupils and increase intraocular pressure.