Dicyclomine is contraindicated in patients who have a

Dicyclomine is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to
anticholinergics and in those with angle-closure glaucoma, paralytic ileus, myasthenia
gravis, gastrointestinal (GI) tract obstruction, GI atony, or toxic megacolon. Arthritis
and seizure disorder are not contraindications to the use of this therapy; however, the
nurse would assess other medication therapy being given for these conditions.
p. 326
A patient is admitted with a cholinergic-blocker overdose. Which
treatment is appropriate? Select all that apply.
Rationale
The treatment of cholinergic-blocker overdose consists of symptomatic and supportive
therapy. The patient should be hospitalized, with continuous electrocardiographic
monitoring. Activated charcoal is effective in removing from the gastrointestinal tract
any drug that has not yet been absorbed. Fluid therapy and other standard measures
used for the treatment of shock are instituted as needed. Continuous blood pressure
monitoring is needed because of the potential for the patient to develop shock.
Nitroglycerin would have an adverse effect in this case and further lower the blood
pressure. Diphenhydramine and other antihistamines do not assist in the
management of cholinergic-blocker overdose.
Nitroglycerin drip
Activated charcoal administration
Intubation and ventilatory support
Continuous blood pressure monitoring
Continuous electrocardiogram monitoring
Intravenous diphenhydramine administration
p. 326

A patient has started treatment with an adrenergic-blocking drug.
Which assessment is the nurse’s highest priority ?