Question

The nurse is caring for a client with multiple sclerosis who is experiencing diplopia. Which intervention would the nurse implement? A. The use of an eye patch B. Moving the furniture to one side of the room C. Instructing the client to stay in bed D. Administering ordered antibiotic eye ointment

Short answer

Answer: A. The use of an eye patch

Step-by-step solution

Understand the condition and symptoms

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Diplopia, or double vision, is a common symptom in MS patients. Diplopia occurs when the eyes are unable to coordinate and focus properly, causing a person to see two images instead of one.

Analyze each intervention

A. The use of an eye patch: An eye patch can help by covering one eye, allowing the other eye to focus and see a single image. This can help alleviate diplopia symptoms. B. Moving the furniture to one side of the room: This intervention would not directly address the issue of diplopia and may not help the client with their symptoms. C. Instructing the client to stay in bed: While rest may be beneficial for MS patients, this intervention does not specifically address the diplopia issue. D. Administering ordered antibiotic eye ointment: An antibiotic eye ointment would be used for an infection, not for addressing the diplopia symptom in a client with MS.

Choose the correct intervention

Based on our analysis, the most appropriate intervention to help the client with multiple sclerosis who is experiencing diplopia would be: A. The use of an eye patch

Key concepts

Nursing Interventions

When caring for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), nurses play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Diplopia, or double vision, is a common challenge in MS patients that requires specific nursing interventions. The goal is to minimize discomfort and enhance safety.

• One effective approach is the use of an eye patch over one eye. This straightforward intervention can help patients focus better by reducing double vision.
• Nurses should also educate patients on ways to adjust their daily activities to prevent accidents. This could include arranging household furniture in a way that ensures clear pathways.
• It's important for nurses to work closely with other healthcare professionals to devise a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual needs of the patient.
• Regular assessments and encouragement support patient adherence to prescribed therapies and lifestyle adjustments, helping to manage MS symptoms such as diplopia effectively.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). This condition can disrupt the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. MS is unpredictable and presents in various forms.

The symptoms and their severity can differ widely, including issues like fatigue, mobility difficulties, and vision problems such as diplopia. Since MS is an autoimmune disorder, it involves the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its own myelin — the protective sheath covering nerve fibers. This results in communication issues between the brain and other parts of the body.

Patients with MS may experience cycles of relapses and remissions, making it challenging to predict how the disease will progress. Management strategies involve medication to modify the disease course, therapy to manage symptoms, and supportive care to improve the patient's functional capacity and well-being. Given its complexity, individualized care is vital in addressing the unique challenges each patient faces.

Vision Problems in MS

Vision problems are a significant concern for those living with multiple sclerosis. Due to the impact on the central nervous system, MS can lead to issues like optic neuritis, nystagmus, and diplopia.

• Diplopia occurs when the nerves controlling the muscles in the eyes are affected. This can result in the eyes being misaligned, hence producing two images at once instead of one clear image.
• Patients might experience periods of intense visual fatigue or blurred vision, often making day-to-day activities challenging.
• The use of an eye patch can be a temporary relief for diplopia by covering one eye, allowing the other to focus. This decreases the visual clutter caused by seeing double.
• Other interventions may include vision therapy, specialized glasses, or medications to reduce nerve inflammation.
• Regular consultations with an ophthalmologist are key to managing overall eye health in MS patients, ensuring they receive comprehensive and ongoing support for their visual challenges.