Cataract Nursing Care Plan & Management

Notes

Description
  1. A cataract is an opacity of the lens that distorts image projected onto the retina and that can progress to blindness.cataract
  2. The lens opacity reduces visual acuity. As the eye ages, the lens loses water and increases in size and density, causing compression of lens fibers. A cataract then forms as oxygen uptake is reduced, water content decreases, calcium content increases, and soluble protein becomes insoluble.
  3. Intervention is indicated when visual acuity has been reduced to a level that the client finds to be unacceptable or adversely affects lifestyle.
  4. Over time, compression of lens fibers causes a painless, progressive loss of transparency that is often bilateral. The rate of cataract formation in each eye is seldom identical.
Causes
  • Cataracts have several causes and may be age-related, present at birth, or formed as a result of trauma or exposure to a toxic substance. The most common cataract is age-related (senile cataract). Traumatic cataracts develop after a foreign body injures the lens. Complicated cataracts develop as secondary effects in patients with metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes mellitus), radiation damage (x-ray or sunlight), or eye inflammation or disease (e.g., glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, detached retina, recurrent uveitis). Toxic cataracts result from drug or chemical toxicity. Congenital cataracts are caused by maternal infection (e.g., German measles, mumps, hepatitis) during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Complications
  • Complications may include retinal disorders, pupillary block, adhesions, acute glaucoma, macular edema, and retinal detachment. Following extracapsular cataract extraction, the posterior capsule may become opacified. This condition, called a secondary membrane or after-cataract, occurs when subcapsular lens epithelial cells regenerate lens fibers, which obstruct vision. After-cataract is treated by yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser treatment to the affected tissue. Without surgery, a cataract eventually causes complete vision loss.
Assessment
  1. Opaque or cloudy white pupilCataract signs and symptoms
  2. Gradual loss of vision
  3. Blurred vision
  4. Decreased color perception
  5. Vision that is better in dim light with pupil dilation
  6. Photophobia
  7. Absence of the red reflex
Primary Nursing Diagnosis
  • Sensory and perceptual alterations (visual) related to decreased visual acuity
Other Diagnoses that may occur in Nursing Care Plans For Cataract
  • Anxiety
  • Deficient knowledge (diagnosis and treatment)
  • Risk for infection
  • Risk for injury
Diagnostic Evaluation
  • General Comments: No specific laboratory tests identify cataracts. Diagnosis is made by history, visual acuity test, and direct ophthalmoscopic exam.cataractvision
  • Ophthalmoscopy or slit lamp examination may reveal a dark area in the red reflex. Ophthalmoscopy or slit lamp examination is a microscopic instrument that allows detailed visualization of anterior segment of eye to identify lens opacities and other eye abnormalities
Medical Management

There is no medical treatment for cataracts, although use of vitamin C and E and beta-carotene is being investigated. Glasses or contact, bifocal, or magnifying lenses may improve vision. Mydriatics can be used short term, but glare is increased.

Surgical Management
  • Surgical removal of the opacified lens is the only cure for cataracts. The lens can be removed when the visual deficit is 20/40.
  • If cataracts occur bilaterally, the more advanced cataract is removed first.
  • Extracapsular cataract extraction, the most common procedure, removes the anterior lens capsule and cortex, leaving the posterior capsule intact. A posterior chamber intraocular lens is implanted where the patient’s own lens used to be.
  • Intracapsular cataract extraction removes the entire lens within the intact capsule. An intraocular lens is implanted in either the anterior or the posterior chamber, or the visual deficit is corrected with contact lenses or cataract glasses.

    Extra-capsular-extraction

    Extracapsular cataract extraction

  • Complications may include retinal disorders, pupillary block, adhesions, acute glaucoma, macular edema, and retinal detachment. Following extracapsular cataract extraction, the posterior capsule may become opacified. This condition, called a secondary membrane or after-cataract, occurs when subcapsular lens epithelial cells regenerate lens fibers, which obstruct vision. After-cataract is treated by yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser treatment to the affected tissue.
Pharmacologic Highlights
  • Acetazolamide a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor is used to reduce intraocular pressure by inhibiting times a day inhibitor formation of hydrogen and bicarbonate ions.
  • Phenylephrine a Sympathomimetic agent causes abnormal dilation of the pupil constriction of conjunctival arteries.
  • Other Medications: Postoperatively, medications are prescribed to reduce infection (gentamicin or neomycin) and to reduce inflammation (dexamethasone), taking the form of eye drops. Acetaminophen is prescribed for mild discomfort; tropicamide is prescribed to induce ciliary paralysis.
Nursing Interventions
  1. If nursing care is provided in the patient’s home, structure the environment with conducive lighting and reduce fall hazards.
  2. Suggest magnifying glasses and large-print books. Explain that sunglasses and soft lighting can reduce glare.
  3. Assist the patient with the actions of daily living as needed to remedy any self-care deficit.
  4. Encourage the patient to verbalize or keep a log on his or her fears and anxiety about visual loss or impending surgery.
  5. Help plan events to solve the problems with social isolation.
Documentation Guidelines
  • Presence of complications: Eye discharge, pain, vital sign alterations
  • Response to eye medication
  • Reaction to supine position
Discharge and Home Healthcare Guidelines
  • Be sure the patient understands all medications, including dosage, route, action, adverse effects,  and need for postoperative evaluation, usually the next day, by the eye surgeon. Review installation technique of eye drops into the conjunctival sac. Teach the patient to avoid over-the-counter medications, particularly those with aspirin.
  • Instruct the patient to report any bleeding, yellow-green drainage, pain, visual losses, nausea, vomiting, tearing, photophobia, or seeing bright flashes of light. Instruct the patient to avoid activities that increase intraocular pressure such as bending at the waist, sleeping on the operativeside, straining with bowel movements, lifting more than 15 pounds, sneezing, coughing, or vomiting. Instruct the patient to wear a shield over the operative eye at night to prevent accidental injury to the eye during sleep and to wear glasses during the day to prevent accidental injury to the eye while awake. Recommend that the patient avoid reading for some time after surgery to reduce eye strain and unnecessary movement so that maximal healing occurs.
  • Advise the patient not to shampoo for several days after surgery. The face should be held away from the shower head with the head tilted back so that water spray and soap avoid contact with the eye.
HOME HEALTH TEACHING
  • Vacuuming should be avoided because of the forward flexion and rapid, jerky movement required.
  • Driving, sports, and machine operation can be resumed when permission is granted by the eye surgeon.
  • Clients fitted with cataract eyeglasses need information about altered spatial perception. The eyeglasses should be first used when the patient is seated, until the patient adjusts to the distortion.
  • Instruct the client to look through the center of the corrective lenses and to turn the head, rather than only the eyes, when looking to the side. Clear vision is possible only through the center of the lens. Hand-eye coordination movements must be practiced with assistance and relearned because of the altered spatial perceptions.

Exam

Welcome to your MSN Exam for Cataract ! This exam is carefully curated to help you consolidate your knowledge and gain deeper understanding on the topic.

 

Exam Details

  • Number of Questions: 20 items
  • Mode: Practice Mode

Exam Instructions

  1. Practice Mode: This mode aims to facilitate effective learning and review.
  2. Instant Feedback: After each question, the correct answer along with an explanation will be revealed. This is to help you understand the reasoning behind the correct answer, helping to reinforce your learning.
  3. Time Limit: There is no time limit for this exam. Take your time to understand each question and the corresponding choices.

Tips For Success

  • Read each question carefully. Take your time and don't rush.
  • Understand the rationale behind each answer. This will not only help you during this exam, but also assist in reinforcing your learning.
  • Don't be discouraged by incorrect answers. Use them as an opportunity to learn and improve.
  • Take breaks if you need them. It's not a race, and your understanding is what's most important.
  • Keep a positive attitude and believe in your ability to succeed.

Remember, this exam is not just a test of your knowledge, but also an opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills. Enjoy the learning journey!

 

Click 'Start Exam' when you're ready to begin. Best of luck!

💡 Hint

Consider the activities that could increase intraocular pressure and potentially affect the surgical site's healing.

1 / 20

1. Nurse Oliver is carefully reviewing discharge instructions with Mr. Allen, a 56-year-old client who has just undergone cataract removal with an intraocular lens implant. Nurse Oliver wants to ensure Mr. Allen understands the key precautions to take during his recovery. What specific advice should Nurse Oliver include in these instructions?

💡 Hint

Focus on the environmental element that is most commonly linked to the development of this particular eye condition, especially in regions close to the equator.

2 / 20

2. Nurse Thompson is discussing with a group of community health workers the primary cause of pterygium, a common eye condition. She emphasizes the environmental factor most associated with the development of this condition. What does Nurse Thompson identify as the primary cause of pterygium?

💡 Hint

Consider which role involves imparting knowledge and ensuring that patients understand how to manage their health and treatment post-discharge.

3 / 20

3. After providing medication teaching to a female patient who is being discharged post-cataract surgery, the nurse asks the patient to repeat the instructions to ensure understanding. In this scenario, the nurse is primarily performing the role of:

💡 Hint

Focus on the type of medication that is commonly used during cataract surgery to dilate the pupil and facilitate the removal of the cataract.

4 / 20

4. Nurse Taylor is getting a client ready for cataract surgery and understands the specific interventions involved in this procedure. Based on her knowledge of cataract surgery techniques, Nurse Taylor is aware that the procedure will involve:

💡 Hint

Consider the typical progression of cataracts and how it affects vision over time, noting the nature of the experience.

5 / 20

5. Nurse Patel is conducting a health education session for a group of seniors about the visual changes associated with cataracts. She wants to correct some common misconceptions and provide accurate information. What should Nurse Patel emphasize about the nature of vision changes in cataracts?

💡 Hint

Focus on the condition that typically presents as a painless, slow-growing lump on the eyelid, resulting from inflammation of a meibomian gland.

6 / 20

6. Nurse Patel is reviewing the medical chart of a patient with a diagnosis related to the meibomian gland. She notes the condition is characterized by a sterile chronic granulomatous inflammation. Which condition is described in the patient's chart?

💡 Hint

Think about general health maintenance and how it relates to recovery. One of these options does not typically correlate with standard post-operative care for cataract extraction.

7 / 20

7. After cataract extraction, it's crucial for the nurse to provide accurate and beneficial post-operative care instructions. However, not all interventions are appropriate. Which of the following is NOT an appropriate nursing intervention to recommend to a client after cataract extraction?

💡 Hint

Consider the role of the lens in the process of vision, particularly how it contributes to the formation of clear images on the part of the eye where visual signals are generated.

8 / 20

8. In a discussion about the effects of cataracts, Nurse Allen describes the normal functions of the crystalline lens in the eye. She emphasizes the primary role of the lens in visual perception. Which of the following best explains the function of the lens?

💡 Hint

Consider the type of lens that can converge light rays, making them focus correctly on the retina for individuals with farsightedness.

9 / 20

9. Nurse Johnson is explaining to a patient diagnosed with hyperopia (farsightedness) the type of corrective lens needed to improve their vision. She details how each lens type functions differently. Which type of lens should Nurse Johnson recommend for correcting hyperopia?

💡 Hint

Reflect on the types of physical activities that are typically advised against after undergoing eye surgery due to the risk they pose to recovery.

10 / 20

10. Nurse Williams is assessing a client's understanding of the do's and don'ts following cataract surgery. She's keen to spot any signs of miscomprehension that could jeopardize the client's recovery. Which of the client's statements would signal a need for Nurse Williams to intervene with additional instruction?

💡 Hint

Think about which activity aligns with the guidelines for minimizing strain on the eyes after cataract surgery.

11 / 20

11. Nurse Jackson has just finished providing postoperative activity instructions to a client who is scheduled for cataract surgery. To evaluate the effectiveness of her teaching, Nurse Jackson listens as the client demonstrates understanding of the postoperative care routine. Which behavior would indicate that the client has correctly understood the postoperative instructions?

💡 Hint

Focus on the measure that is commonly recommended to protect the eye and ensure proper healing following cataract surgery.

12 / 20

12. When providing discharge teaching to a client who has undergone cataract surgery, it's important for the nurse to include accurate and helpful post-operative care instructions. Which of the following should the nurse emphasize as part of the discharge teaching for this client?

💡 Hint

Think about the most effective positioning for a nurse when guiding a blind person during ambulation to ensure safety and support.

13 / 20

13. For a blind person, nurses provide specific interventions to promote safety and independence. However, not all practices are appropriate. Which of the following is NOT a correct nursing intervention for a blind person?

💡 Hint

Consider how cataracts affect vision over time, focusing on the nature of the visual change and any associated discomfort.

14 / 20

14. Nurse Connor is holding an informational session about cataracts for a group of elderly patients at the community health center. He aims to clarify some common misunderstandings and accurately explain the nature of vision changes due to cataracts. What should Nurse Connor highlight as the true characteristic of vision changes associated with cataracts?

💡 Hint

Focus on the symptom that could indicate a significant complication specific to the eye after cataract surgery.

15 / 20

15. Nurse Davis is providing discharge instructions to Mr. Johnson, who has just undergone cataract surgery. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring his condition and promptly contacting his doctor if certain symptoms arise. Which situation should Nurse Davis instruct Mr. Johnson to report immediately to his doctor?

💡 Hint

Consider which activity could potentially increase pressure in the eyes and should be avoided immediately after cataract surgery.

16 / 20

16. Nurse Carter is tasked with caring for a 56-year-old female patient who underwent cataract surgery an hour earlier. It's crucial for Nurse Carter to provide appropriate postoperative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Which action should Nurse Carter prioritize when advising the patient?

💡 Hint

Focus on the preventative aspect of the procedure concerning a specific eye condition that can arise after surgery.

17 / 20

17. Nurse Thompson is explaining to a patient the purpose of an iridectomy procedure that is scheduled to follow a cataract extraction. The patient is curious about the main reason for this additional procedure. What should Nurse Thompson identify as the primary rationale for performing an iridectomy after cataract extraction?

💡 Hint

Choose the test that is universally recognized for measuring the clarity or sharpness of vision from a certain distance.

18 / 20

18. Nurse Thompson is conducting a routine check-up on Mrs. Davis, a 65-year-old patient who has been experiencing difficulties in reading street signs and newspapers. Nurse Thompson decides to assess Mrs. Davis's visual acuity specifically. Which test should Nurse Thompson administer to accurately measure this?

💡 Hint

This condition is specifically related to aging and affects the ability to focus on close objects, reflecting a change in the eye's lens flexibility.

19 / 20

19. The term that refers to the age-related decrease in the flexibility of the eye's lens, leading to a farther near point of focus, is:

💡 Hint

Focus on the most common and central visual disturbance that is symptomatic of cataracts.

20 / 20

20. Nurse Green is conducting an eye health workshop and is discussing cataracts with the participants. She wants to highlight the main issue people experience when they have cataracts. What should Nurse Green identify as the primary problem associated with cataracts?

Nursing Care Plan

Nursing Assessment
  1. Activity / Rest: The change from the usual activities / hobbies in connection with visual impairment.
  2. Neurosensory: Impaired vision blurred / not clear, bright light causes glare with a gradual loss of peripheral vision, difficulty focusing work with closely or feel the dark room. Vision cloudy / blurry, looking halo / rainbow around the beam, changes eyeglasses, medication does not improve vision, photophobia (acute glaucoma).
    Signs: Looks brownish or milky white in the pupil (cataract), the pupil narrows and red / hard eye and a cloudy cornea (glaucoma emergency, increased tears)
  3. Pain / Leisure: Discomfort light / watery eyes. Sudden pain / heavy persist or pressure on or around the eyes, headaches.

Nursing Diagnosis

Anxiety related to lack of knowledge.

Goal
  1. Lowering the emotional stress, fear and depression.
  2. Acceptance and understanding instructions surgery.
Nursing Interventions
  • Assess the degree and duration of visual impairment. Encourage conversation to find out the patient’s concerns, feelings, and the level of understanding.
    • Rationale: Information can eliminate the fear of the unknown. Coping mechanisms can help patients with kegusara compromise, fear, depression, tension, despair, anger, and rejection.
  • Orient the patient to the new environment.
    • Rationale: The introduction to the environment helps reduce anxiety and increase security.
  • Explain the perioperative routines.
    • Rationale: Patients who have a lot of information easier to receive treatment and follow instructions.
  • Describes intervention much detail as possible.
    • Rationale: Patients who experience visual disturbances rely on other senses salts input information.
  • Push to perform daily living habits when able.
    • Rationale: Self-care and will increase the sense of healthy independence.
  • Encourage participation of family or the people who matter in patient care.
    • Rationale: Patients may not be able to perform all duties in connection with the handling of personal care.
  • Encourage participation in social activities and diversion whenever possible (visitors, radio, audio recording, TV, crafts, games).
    • Rationale: Social isolation and leisure time is too long can cause negative feelings.

Nursing Diagnosis

Risk for injury related to blurred vision

Goal

Prevention of injury.

Nursing Interventions
  • Help the patient when able to do until postoperative ambulation and achieve stable vision and adequate coping skills, using techniques of vision guidance.
    • Rationale: Reduce the risk of falling or injury when the step stagger or have no coping skills for vision impairment.
  • Help the patient set the environment.
    • Rationale: Providing facilities of independence and lower the risk of injury.
  • Orient the patient in the room.
    • Rationale: Improving safety and mobility in the environment.
  • Discuss the need for the use of metal shields or goggles when instructed
    • Rationale: shield or goggles protect the eyes against injury.
  • Do not put pressure on the affected eye trauma.
    • Rationale: The pressure in the eye may cause further serious damage.
  • Use proper procedures when providing eye drugs.
    • Rationale: Injury can occur if the container touch the eye medication.

Nursing Diagnosis

Acute pain related to trauma to the incision and increased IOP

Goal

Reduction of pain and the IOP.

Nursing Interventions
  • Give medications to control pain and the IOP as prescribed.
    • Rationale: Use the recipe will reduce pain and the IOP and increase comfort.
  • Give cold compress on demand for blunt trauma.
    • Rationale: reduce the edema will reduce the pain.
  • Reduce the level of lighting
    • Rationale: The level of lighting is more lower after surgery.
  • Encourage use of sunglasses in strong light.
    • Rationale: Strong light causes discomfort after use of eye drops dilator.

Nursing Diagnosis

Risk for infection related to trauma to the incision

Goal

Complications can be avoided or promptly reported to the doctor.

Nursing Interventions
  • Maintain strict aseptic technique, do wash your hands frequently.
    • Rationale: It would minimize infection.
  • Supervise and report immediately any signs and symptoms of complications, such as: bleeding, increased IOP or infection.
    • Rationale: The discovery of early complications can reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.
  • Explain the recommended position.
    • Rationale: Elevation of the head and avoid lying on the side of the operation may reduce the edema.
  • Instruct the patient to know bedrest activity restrictions, with flexibility to the bathroom, according to a gradual increase in activity tolerance.
    • Rationale: Limitation of activity prescribed to speed healing and avoid further damage to the injured eye.
  • Describe the actions that should be avoided, as prescribed by coughing, sneezing, vomiting (ask for medication for it).
    • Rationale: It can lead to complications such as vitreous prolapse or dehiscence injury due to increased tension on the suture wounds that are very subtle.
  • Give medications as prescribed, according to prescribed techniques.
    • Rationale: Drugs are administered in a way that is inconsistent with prescriptions can interfere with healing or cause complications.