A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving mydriatic eye drops. Which of the following manifestations indicate to the nurse that the client has developed a systemic anticholinergic effect?
A.
Hypothermia
B.
Bradycardia
C.
Seizures
D.
Constipation
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Constipation.
Mydriatic eye drops are used to dilate the pupils, commonly during eye examinations or surgeries. These medications often have anticholinergic properties, meaning they block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that influences various bodily functions including those of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS is responsible for “rest and digest” functions, and blocking it can lead to various systemic effects if the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream.
Systemic anticholinergic effects typically include:
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Blurred vision
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
- Urinary retention
- Constipation
- Confusion or agitation, particularly in older adults
Among the options provided:
- A. Hypothermia is incorrect because anticholinergic effects generally cause reduced sweating and, in some cases, hyperthermia due to inhibited temperature regulation, not hypothermia.
- B. Bradycardia is incorrect because anticholinergic medications more commonly lead to tachycardia (an increased heart rate) by inhibiting the vagus nerve, which normally slows down the heart rate.
- C. Seizures are not a typical manifestation of systemic anticholinergic effects, although severe overdose or toxicity can lead to confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, but not seizures directly.
- D. Constipation is correct. This is a common anticholinergic effect because the PNS stimulates peristalsis (the movement of the intestines). When anticholinergics block the PNS, it slows down gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation.
Therefore, constipation is a typical sign of systemic anticholinergic effects in clients receiving medications like mydriatic eye drops, which may be absorbed into the bloodstream, especially if used excessively or in patients with compromised clearance or sensitivity to the drug.