Question

After laser therapy for a small retinal tear, the client complains of sensitivity to light. Which is an appropriate response by the nurse? a. "This sometimes occurs. If it continues over the next 8 hours you will need to be checked." b. "This is normal. Let me review some things you can do to avoid exposure to direct light." c. "Apply cool compresses; if you do not have relief in 2 hours, call me back." d. "You need to come in right away to check for abnormal swelling in your eye."

Short answer

b. 'This is normal. Let me review some things you can do to avoid exposure to direct light.'

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Symptoms and Concerns

The client reports sensitivity to light after laser therapy for a retinal tear. Sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, is a common side effect.

Evaluate the Options

Analyze the given responses to determine which is most appropriate based on the symptom and typical post-laser therapy care.

Option Analysis: a

Option a suggests the symptom 'sometimes occurs' and advises the client to seek medical attention if it persists for 8 hours. It addresses the issue but provides a delayed response.

Option Analysis: b

Option b normalizes the symptom and provides preventative advice to avoid direct light exposure. This addresses the symptom and offers practical guidance.

Option Analysis: c

Option c advises the application of cool compresses and sets a 2-hour timeline for relief before further action. This provides immediate relief but may not be necessary.

Option Analysis: d

Option d recommends immediate medical attention to check for swelling. This represents a high urgency response which might be excessive for a common side effect.

Select the Best Response

Option b is the most appropriate as it normalizes the post-therapy symptom and provides practical advice to continue care without unnecessary urgency.

Key concepts

photophobia management

After laser therapy, experiencing sensitivity to light, or photophobia, is fairly common. Understanding how to manage this effectively is crucial for patient comfort and recovery. Here are some essential steps to manage photophobia effectively:

• Encourage the use of sunglasses, even indoors if the light is strong.
  
• Recommend keeping lights dimmed in the house. Use curtains or blinds to control the amount of natural light.
  
• Avoid direct exposure to bright screens such as computers or phones. Consider using screen filters.
  
• Suggest using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to reduce dryness, which can worsen photophobia.

Taking these steps can help in alleviating the discomfort associated with sensitivity to light and make the recovery period more bearable. Always monitor the patient’s symptoms and encourage them to keep in touch with their healthcare provider if the symptoms persist.

postoperative education

Proper postoperative education can significantly enhance recovery after laser therapy. Nurses play a key role in educating patients on what to expect post-surgery and how to take care of themselves. Some critical points to highlight include:

• Reassuring the patient that minor discomfort and sensitivity to light are expected and temporary.
  
• Instructing the patient on the importance of avoiding strenuous activities that may put pressure on the eyes.
  
• Teaching the patient to follow the prescribed medication regimen strictly, which may include antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
  
• Highlighting the importance of attending all follow-up appointments to monitor the eye’s healing process.
  
• Educating on signs of potential complications such as increased pain, significant swelling, or vision changes, and the need to seek medical attention if these occur.

Providing thorough and easy-to-understand postoperative education ensures that patients are well-prepared to care for themselves, thereby promoting better outcomes and faster recovery.

eye care guidelines

Following comprehensive eye care guidelines is vital for recovery after laser therapy. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Resting the eyes is crucial. Encourage patients to avoid reading, watching TV, or using electronic devices for extended periods.
  
• Emphasize the importance of not rubbing or touching the eyes to prevent irritation or infection.
  
• Make sure patients understand how to properly administer any prescribed eye drops. Demonstrate if necessary.
  
• Recommend using protective eyewear to shield the eyes from dust, wind, or accidental bumps.
  
• Advise patients to keep their heads elevated, especially when sleeping, to reduce swelling.

By adhering to these guidelines, patients can help ensure proper healing of their eyes after laser therapy. Always encourage open communication with healthcare providers to address any concerns or questions promptly. Happy healing!