NR 293 Week 8 Discussion: Glaucoma (GRADED A)

Week 8: Discussion: Glaucoma No unread replies.11 reply. Pharmacological management of glaucoma focuses on the reduction of intraocular pressure by increasing the drainage of aqueous humor, decreasing the production, or both. What drug classes are used to reduce intraocular pressure? Describe three nursing interventions to consider with these drug classes. Glaucoma is a condition where the optic nerve of eye is damaged due to abnormally high pressure in the optic nerves. Glaucoma does not discriminate, it can occur at any age, however it is seen more in adults and it is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. This condition has no warning signs because it is gradual and it is unnoticeable for the most part when vision change is in an advanced stage. Vision loss due to glaucoma is not reversible, however, complications can decrease with early diagnosis and treatment because earlier detection can slowdown or prevent vision loss. Medications for glaucoma includes;  Beta blockers are the first-line drug therapy for glaucoma and decrease intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production.  Pilocarpine ophthalmic solution - these medications work by draining excess fluid from the eye ().  Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (dorzolamide, acetazolamide, and brinzolamide) work in similar ways as beta blockers. In the treatment of glaucoma, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors decrease the secretions of the aqueous humor (). These are available in gels or eyedrop.