Question

A client having surgery for glaucoma asks the nurse how the doctor will know if the surgery is successful. Which would be an appropriate response for the nurse to make? A. IOP will decrease. B. Ability to read small print will improve. C Pupil will remain permanently dilated. D. Peripheral vision will increase.

Short answer

A. IOP will decrease.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that affects the eyes by increasing intraocular pressure (IOP), potentially leading to vision loss if untreated.

Identify the Focus of Surgery

The main goal of glaucoma surgery is to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision.

Analyze the Given Options

Consider each response in terms of its relevance to the goal of glaucoma surgery.

Evaluate Option A

A. IOP will decrease: Decreasing IOP helps to prevent further damage to the optic nerve, which is a primary goal of glaucoma surgery.

Evaluate Option B

B. Ability to read small print will improve: While improved vision can be a benefit, this is not a direct measure of the success of glaucoma surgery.

Evaluate Option C

C. Pupil will remain permanently dilated: Permanent dilation of the pupil is not an expected outcome or goal of glaucoma surgery.

Evaluate Option D

D. Peripheral vision will increase: Though improving or preserving vision is important, the direct measure of success is the reduction of IOP.

Select the Correct Response

The most appropriate response describing the success of glaucoma surgery is Option A: IOP will decrease.

Key concepts

Intraocular Pressure Reduction

One of the most critical measures of successful glaucoma surgery is the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP). High IOP is a primary risk factor for glaucoma as it can damage the optic nerve over time. Surgery aims to create a new drainage pathway or enhance the existing ones to help fluid exit the eye more efficiently. Lowering IOP helps to:

• Reduce the risk of optic nerve damage.
• Preserve existing vision.
• Prevent further progression of glaucoma.

Monitoring IOP before and after surgery is essential to assess the surgery's success.

Optic Nerve Preservation

Preserving the optic nerve is essential for maintaining vision in glaucoma patients. The optic nerve is crucial as it transfers visual information from the retina to the brain. High intraocular pressure can damage this nerve, leading to vision loss. Glaucoma surgery aims to:

• Protect the optic nerve from high IOP.
• Prevent vision loss by maintaining healthy optic nerve function.
• Ensure long-term eye health.

An intact optic nerve is a strong indicator of successful management of glaucoma.

Glaucoma Education

Education is a vital component of glaucoma management. Patients need to understand their condition and the importance of treatment adherence. Key points to cover include:

• Understanding glaucoma and its potential impact on vision.
• The significance of regular eye examinations to monitor IOP and optic nerve health.
• Following prescribed treatments and medications to manage IOP.
• Recognizing symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Educating patients empowers them to take proactive steps in managing their condition, ensuring better surgical outcomes and quality of life.