Which of the following drugs is used for the dilation of pupil?

Appeared in: AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Explanation

Tropicamide is classified as a mydriatic and cycloplegic agent, specifically an anticholinergic.
It works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the eye's sphincter muscle, causing it to relax and leading to pupil dilation (mydriasis).
This action is necessary for procedures like fundus examinations, where a wide pupil is needed to view the retina and optic nerve.
It has a relatively rapid onset (20-40 minutes) and short duration (4-6 hours), making it ideal for outpatient diagnostic procedures.

Option B: Betamethasone is a potent corticosteroid. Its primary function is to reduce inflammation in the eye.
Option C: Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye, such as bacterial conjunctivitis.
Option D: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. Like levofloxacin, its purpose is to eliminate bacterial pathogens causing eye infections.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology of Ophthalmic Medications (Mydriatics) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must educate patients about the expected side effects of mydriatics, including temporary blurred vision and photophobia (light sensitivity), and advise them to wear sunglasses and arrange for transportation home.
Accurate administration is critical. Nurses should confirm the correct medication, dose, and eye before instillation to prevent medication errors.
What if the patient has narrow-angle glaucoma? Mydriatics are contraindicated in these patients. Dilating the pupil can obstruct the drainage of aqueous humor, leading to a sudden and dangerous increase in intraocular pressure (acute angle-closure crisis), which is a medical emergency.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key action requested in the question: 'dilation of pupil'. The medical term for this is mydriasis.
Next, review the options and classify each drug based on its primary pharmacological action.
Tropicamide is a classic mydriatic agent.
Betamethasone is a steroid (anti-inflammatory).
Levofloxacin and Gentamicin are antibiotics (anti-infectives).
Match the drug class to the required action. Only Tropicamide is used to dilate the pupil.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 1 p. 92-94

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 3 p. 260-262

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