A nurse is performing preoperative assessments on a client who has a suspected detached retina. Which of the following should the nurse expect to find?
Tonometer intraocular pressure reading 8 mm Hg
Smooth retina edges identified on slit-lamp biomicroscope examination
Visual acuity of 20/20 using the Snellen eye chart
Lens and cornea appear intact during ophthalmoscope exam
The Correct Answer is A
Tonometer intraocular pressure reading 8 mm Hg (Option A): A low intraocular pressure reading may indicate a detached retina. In a detached retina, the vitreous humor (gel-like substance in the eye) may leak into the space behind the retina, causing a decrease in intraocular pressure. However, it's important to note that intraocular pressure alone cannot definitively diagnose a detached retina, and further diagnostic tests, such as a dilated eye examination or retinal imaging, would be needed for confirmation.
Smooth retina edges identified on slit-lamp biomicroscope examination (Option B): In the case of a detached retina, the edges of the retina may appear irregular or undulating rather than smooth. This irregularity is often observed during a dilated eye examination rather than with a slit-lamp biomicroscope.
Visual acuity of 20/20 using the Snellen eye chart (Option C): Visual acuity may be affected in a detached retina, depending on the extent and location of the detachment. However, visual acuity alone cannot confirm a detached retina, as other factors such as refractive errors or cataracts can also affect visual acuity.
Lens and cornea appear intact during ophthalmoscope exam (Option D): While a detached retina may be visualized during an ophthalmoscope examination as a gray or whitish area behind the lens, the appearance of the lens and cornea being intact does not definitively diagnose a detached retina. A thorough dilated eye examination by an ophthalmologist is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. White blood cell level of 5,900 mm3: While abnormal white blood cell levels can indicate infection or inflammation, they are not typically associated with directly contributing to an episode of delirium. However, underlying conditions that cause abnormal white blood cell levels, such as infection or inflammation, may contribute to delirium.
B. Potassium level of 4.1 mEq/L: Potassium imbalances can lead to various neurological symptoms, including weakness, paralysis, and cardiac arrhythmias. However, a potassium level of 4.1 mEq/L is within the normal range and is unlikely to directly contribute to an episode of delirium.
C. Hemoglobin level of 14.2 g/dL: Hemoglobin levels reflect the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and are not directly associated with delirium. While severe anemia or hypoxia can cause neurological symptoms, a hemoglobin level of 14.2 g/dL is within the normal range and is unlikely to directly contribute to delirium.
D. Blood glucose level of 254 mg/dL: Elevated blood glucose levels, as indicated by a blood glucose level of 254 mg/dL, can contribute to an episode of delirium. Hyperglycemia can lead to alterations in cerebral metabolism, neuronal dysfunction, and impaired cognitive function, predisposing individuals to delirium. Additionally, hyperglycemia can exacerbate preexisting neurological conditions and increase the risk of developing delirium in critically ill patients. Therefore, monitoring and managing blood glucose levels are essential in preventing and managing delirium in hospitalized patients.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Female sex: While gender can influence the risk of certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, there isn't a direct correlation between being female and an increased risk of delirium. Both males and females can develop delirium under certain circumstances.
B. History of drug and alcohol use: A history of drug and alcohol use increases the risk for the development of delirium. Substance abuse, including alcohol, illicit drugs, and certain prescription medications, can disrupt neurotransmitter function and lead to alterations in mental status, including delirium. Additionally, withdrawal from alcohol or drugs can precipitate delirium in susceptible individuals.
C. Lack of medical insurance: While access to healthcare and socioeconomic factors can impact overall health outcomes, there isn't a direct association between lack of medical insurance and an increased risk of delirium. Delirium is more closely linked to medical conditions, substance use, and other physiological factors.
D. History of lymphoma: While certain medical conditions, such as infections, metabolic disturbances, and neurological disorders, can increase the risk of delirium, there isn't a direct correlation between a history of lymphoma and the development of delirium. Delirium is more commonly associated with acute illness, surgery, or medication use.
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