Question

A patient begins using timolol (Timoptic) to treat primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The nurse gives a dose and notes that the patient develops shortness of breath. The nurse assesses the patient and auscultates wheezes in both lungs. The nurse will ask this patient about a history of which condition?

-Asthma
- Atrioventricular heart block
- Pulmonary hypertension
-Sinus bradycardia

Answer 1

The nurse should ask the patient about a history of asthma since timolol, a ß-blocker used to treat POAG, can cause bronchospasm and worsen asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient using timolol (Timoptic) for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) develops shortness of breath and wheezes in both lungs after administration, the nurse should inquire about a history of asthma. Timolol is a ß-blocker, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms by causing bronchospasm. Given that the patient developed respiratory symptoms consistent with an asthma attack, such as wheezing and dyspnea, following the medication's administration, asthma is likely a critical underlying condition that should be evaluated.