Question

The physician has ordered fluorescein angiography for a client with diabetic retinopathy. The nurse should tell the client that: A. The procedure will take one to two hours. B. The client will be given oral medication to prepare for the test. C. The urine will be bright green until the dye is excreted. D. The client will need to limit fluid intake after the test.

Short answer

Answer: The client should be informed that their urine will be bright green until the dye is excreted.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the procedure

Fluorescein angiography is a diagnostic test that uses a dye (called Fluorescein) to observe blood circulation in the retina and choroid. It is used to diagnose and manage various eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy. The dye is injected into a vein in the client's arm, and a series of photographs are taken as the dye passes through the blood vessels in the eye.

Assess each option

Let's discuss each option individually: A. The procedure will take one to two hours. (It is important to know the duration of the procedure to manage client expectations.) B. The client will be given oral medication to prepare for the test. (We need to know if oral medication is required before the test.) C. The urine will be bright green until the dye is excreted. (This is useful information as the client may be alarmed by a change in urine color if they are not informed.) D. The client will need to limit fluid intake after the test. (It is crucial to know any restrictions after the procedure.)

Choose the correct option

Based on the understanding of the procedure and evaluating the provided options, the correct answer is: C. The urine will be bright green until the dye is excreted. The fluorescein dye used in this procedure is typically excreted through urine within 24-48 hours and may cause a temporary change in urine color. This is an essential piece of information to provide the client to avoid any concerns or confusion after the procedure.

Key concepts

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can occur in individuals who have diabetes. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Over time, diabetes can cause changes in the retina that lead to symptoms such as blurred vision, floaters, dark areas of vision, and difficulty seeing colors.

Fluorescein angiography, within this context, plays a vital role in both diagnosing the extent of retinopathy and monitoring its progression. The procedure highlights the blood vessels in the retina, allowing doctors to identify any damage or abnormal changes, such as blockages or leakages. This information is crucial since it informs the treatment decisions, which might include medication, laser treatment, or surgery, hence preventing further vision loss.

A thorough understanding of diabetic retinopathy is also pivotal for patient education, as managing one's diabetes effectively can slow the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy.

Diagnostic Imaging in Nursing

In the field of nursing, diagnostic imaging such as fluorescein angiography is a tool nurses must be knowledgeable about to effectively prepare patients and provide care before, during, and after the diagnostic procedure. Nurses play an essential role in explaining what patients should expect and addressing any concerns they might have.

Understanding the specifics of the imaging procedure can empower nursing professionals to reassure patients about the steps involved, like the injection of fluorescein dye and the importance of remaining still for clear images. Moreover, they can educate patients about the aftereffects, including the change in urine color to a bright green until the dye is excreted, which is harmless but can be surprising for unaware individuals.

Providing concise pretest and posttest care instructions is imperative to achieve meaningful outcomes while ensuring the patient's safety and mental well-being throughout the diagnostic process.

Patient Education

When conducting patient education, it is vital to communicate the crucial aspects of any procedure or test in an easily understandable manner. For a fluorescein angiography procedure, informing the patient about key aspects such as the length of the procedure, as well as any expected sensations and potential side effects, is important for preparing them physically and mentally.

Explaining that their urine may appear bright green is a specific and important aspect of education to prevent unnecessary anxiety. Also, dispelling misconceptions, such as the need for limiting fluid intake post-procedure when no such restriction is necessary, is part of effective patient education. Encouraging patients to ask questions and providing comprehensive answers contributes to building trust and ensuring patients are well-informed about their health care procedures.

Remember, informed patients are more likely to comply with medical advice and feel a sense of control over their healthcare journey, thereby enhancing the overall care experience.