A nurse is caring for a client who has a cloudy, opaque area over the lens of one eye.
The nurse should identify that this is a manifestation of which of the following visual impairments?

Heat stroke is a serious condition caused by overheating of the body, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. It can damage the brain and other internal organs, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Some of the symptoms of heat stroke are:

• High body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher

• Altered mental state or behavior, such as confusion, agitation, slurred speech, seizures or coma

• Lack of sweating despite the heat

• Red, hot and dry skin

• Rapid and strong pulse

• Throbbing headach

• Nausea and vomiting

Choice B is wrong because it is necessary to call 911 if someone has heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and cooling of the body.

Choice C is wrong because it is not normal to vomit and not sweat during a marathon. Vomiting and lack of sweating are signs of dehydration and heat stroke, which indicate that the body is unable to regulate its temperature properly.

Choice D is wrong because getting the patient to a cooler, air-conditioned place will not reverse the heat exhaustion.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can lead to heat stroke if not treated. Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and muscle cramps. Getting the patient to a cooler place may help with heat exhaustion, but heat stroke requires more aggressive cooling measures such as immersing the patient in cold water or applying ice packs to the body.

This action is intended to prevent a sentinel event, which is a patient safety event that results in death, permanent harm, or severe temporary harm. A sentinel event is a serious adverse event that signals the need for immediate investigation and response. Removing the wrong arm would be a devastating and irreversible outcome for the patient and the health care provider.

Choice A is wrong because the lack of healing of the stump is not a sentinel event. It is a possible complication of amputation that may be related to the natural course of the patient’s illness or underlying condition.

Choice B is wrong because ineffective control of the client’s pain is not a sentinel event. It is a quality of care issue that may affect the patient’s comfort and recovery, but it does not result in death, permanent harm, or severe temporary harm.

Choice D is wrong because the client being mildly sedated is not a sentinel event. It is a level of anesthesia that may be appropriate for some types of surgery, but it does not result in death, permanent harm, or severe temporary harm.