NCLEX Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies Related

Review NCLEX Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies related questions and content

The nurse administered phenylephrine eye drops to the client before performing an ophthalmoscopic eye examination. Which assessment finding should the nurse expect?

  • A. Tremor
  • B. Hypotension
  • C. Pupil miosis
  • D. Pupil mydriasis
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A: Tremors are a side effect if phenylephrine is absorbed systemically. B: Because phenylephrine absorbed systemically is a vasoconstrictor, hypertension (not hypotension) can occur as a side effect. C: Miosis is pupil constriction, not an effect of phenylephrine. D: Phenylephrine (NeoSynephrine), an adrenergic agonist, produces pupil dilation (mydriasis) by activating alpha1-adrenergic receptors on the dilator muscles of the iris.