A nurse is performing an eye assessment for a newly admitted client. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Eyelashes that curl slightly outward:

This is the correct answer. The direction and curl of eyelashes vary among individuals, but eyelashes that curl slightly outward are a normal and expected finding. This characteristic does not typically indicate any pathology or abnormality.

B. Eyelids that blink involuntarily 30 to 35 times per minute:

The normal range for involuntary blinking is approximately 15 to 20 times per minute. A rate of 30 to 35 blinks per minute may suggest increased nervousness or anxiety and is not within the expected normal range.

C. Corneas with an opaque appearance:

Normal corneas should have a clear and transparent appearance. Opacity of the cornea can be indicative of various eye conditions, such as corneal edema or scarring, and is not an expected finding in a healthy eye.

D. Pupils that are 8 to 9 mm in diameter:

The normal range for pupil size is approximately 2 to 6 mm in diameter. Pupils that are 8 to 9 mm in diameter may indicate abnormal dilation (mydriasis) and can be associated with conditions such as drug toxicity or neurological issues.

A. The client is consuming 25% of their meals.

Poor nutritional intake can lead to complications over time, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to other options. This finding is important but not the highest priority.

B. The client coughs frequently while eating.

Frequent coughing while eating can indicate dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which increases the risk of aspiration. Aspiration can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia, which is life-threatening. This is the nurse’s priority finding because it poses an immediate risk to the client’s airway and respiratory status.

C. The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.

The blood pressure is elevated, which is concerning, especially in a post-stroke client. However, it is not critically high and does not present an immediate threat compared to the risk of aspiration.

D. The client leans to the left side while sitting.

Leaning to the left side while sitting could indicate poor balance or proprioception, which increases the risk of falls. While important to address, it is not as immediately critical as the risk of aspiration.