A nurse is reviewing a client’s medical history before administering a new prescription for atropine. Which of the following client conditions is contraindicated?
A.
Glaucoma
B.
Bronchospasms
C.
Diverticulitis
D.
Diarrhea
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. Glaucoma.
Explanation:
Atropine is an anticholinergic medication that works by blocking the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors. It is often used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate), to reduce salivation during surgery, and to dilate pupils for eye examinations. However, its use is contraindicated in certain conditions, primarily due to its effects on the autonomic nervous system.
Glaucoma is the condition most contraindicated for atropine use. Atropine can increase intraocular pressure by causing dilation of the pupils (mydriasis) and paralysis of the ciliary muscle (cycloplegia), which can impair aqueous humor drainage from the eye. In individuals with glaucoma, particularly those with narrow-angle glaucoma (angle-closure glaucoma), this effect can exacerbate the condition and lead to a dangerous increase in intraocular pressure. This increased pressure can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss or other severe complications.
Bronchospasms are not a direct contraindication for atropine. In fact, atropine’s anticholinergic effects can sometimes help to alleviate bronchospasms by reducing mucus secretion and dilating the airways, though it is not typically the first-line treatment for this condition.
Diverticulitis involves inflammation or infection of the diverticula in the colon, and while atropine’s anticholinergic properties could theoretically affect bowel motility, it is not specifically contraindicated for diverticulitis.
Diarrhea is a condition where atropine’s anticholinergic effects can actually be beneficial. Atropine can reduce gastrointestinal motility and secretion, which might help manage symptoms of diarrhea.
In summary, atropine is contraindicated in clients with glaucoma due to the risk of increasing intraocular pressure and potentially worsening the condition.