A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has primary open-angle glaucoma and a new prescription for timolol eye drops.Which of the following statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale:"This medication will darken the color of my eyes." This statement is not accurate. Timolol eye drops, which are commonly used to treat glaucoma, do not darken the color of the eyes. This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the medication's effects.Choice B rationale:"This medication will dilate my eyes." This statement is not accurate either. Timolol is a beta-blocker that works to reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye. It does not dilate the eyes; in fact, it has the opposite effect.Choice C rationale:"I should take a zinc supplement while taking this medication." This statement is unrelated to the use of timolol eye drops for glaucoma and is not part of the standard treatment plan. There is no established connection between taking zinc supplements and using timolol for glaucoma management.Choice D rationale:"I should check my heart rate while taking this medication." This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Timolol is a beta-blocker that can lower heart rate and blood pressure. Clients using timolol eye drops should be advised to monitor their heart rate regularly and report any significant changes to their healthcare provider. This is important for safety and to ensure that the medication is not causing any adverse cardiovascular effects.