A patient with glaucoma is on timolol.The patient also takes metoprolol for hypertension.The patient reports to the clinic nurse that the eyedrops "Make me dizzy." What assessment by the nurse is most appropriate?
A)Assess the patient's eyedrop instillation technique.
B)Determine how long the patient has been on the drops.
C)Assess the patient's gait and balance while walking.
D)Ask the patient if breakfast is eaten prior to applying the eyedrops.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Timolol is a beta-blocker used in the form of eye drops for glaucoma. Incorrect instillation technique can lead to systemic absorption, which when combined with another beta-blocker like metoprolol, can enhance systemic effects such as dizziness. Assessing the instillation technique can help determine if this is contributing to the patient's symptoms.

A Patient with Glaucoma Is on Timolol