CPOA Ocular Pharmacology 4

Question 1

Which ophthalmic agent is contraindicated in patients with a known sulfa drug allergy?

Accepted Answer

Dorzolamide

Answer

Dorzolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor with a sulfonamide chemical structure, making it contraindicated in patients with sulfa allergies.

Question 2

A patient using brimonidine (Alphagan) should be monitored for which systemic side effect, especially in infants and young children?

Accepted Answer

CNS depression and apnea

Answer

Brimonidine, an alpha-2 agonist, can cross the blood-brain barrier in young children, causing CNS depression, somnolence, and potentially apnea.

Question 3

Which mydriatic agent also produces cycloplegia (loss of accommodation)?

Accepted Answer

Cyclopentolate 1%

Answer

Cyclopentolate is an anticholinergic that blocks muscarinic receptors in both the iris sphincter (causing mydriasis) and the ciliary muscle (causing cycloplegia).

Question 4

What is the duration of action of tropicamide 1% for mydriasis?

Accepted Answer

4-6 hours

Answer

Tropicamide 1% produces mydriasis lasting approximately 4-6 hours, making it one of the shorter-acting anticholinergic mydriatics.

Question 5

Fluorescein sodium strips should be moistened with which solution before use?

Accepted Answer

Sterile saline or sterile water

Answer

Fluorescein strips should be moistened with sterile saline or sterile water to prevent contamination and ensure patient safety.

(CPOA) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant Practice Test

(CPOA) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant Practice Test

CPOA Ocular Pharmacology 4