A nurse working in an alternative therapy clinic is assisting in the care of a client who has elevated cholesterol levels. Which of the following should the nurse recommend?

Rationale:

A. Nystagmus: Nystagmus is characterized by involuntary eye movements and is typically associated with vestibular disorders, multiple sclerosis, or congenital conditions. It is not a symptom of macular degeneration, which primarily affects the retina.

B. Astigmatism: Astigmatism is a refractive error due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. It is unrelated to macular degeneration, which involves degeneration of the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.

C. Loss of central vision: Macular degeneration leads to progressive deterioration of the macula, resulting in blurred or complete loss of central vision while peripheral vision remains intact. This is a hallmark symptom and significantly affects activities like reading and recognizing faces.

D. Client reports sharp pain: Macular degeneration does not typically cause pain. It is a painless condition, and the presence of sharp eye pain may suggest another acute ocular issue such as glaucoma or injury, not related to macular changes.

Rationale:

A. "You should appoint a family member as your health care surrogate.": While clients may choose a family member, they are not required to do so. The decision is personal, and clients can appoint anyone they trust, regardless of relation, to serve as their health care surrogate.

B. "Once you have completed a living will, it cannot be changed.": A living will can be revised or revoked at any time by the client as long as they remain mentally competent. Clients retain the right to alter their advance directives based on changes in preferences or health status.

C. "You will need an attorney to appoint a health care surrogate.": Appointing a health care surrogate does not require an attorney. Most states allow individuals to complete this process using standardized forms and witnesses, without the need for legal representation.

D. "Your health care surrogate will make decisions on your behalf if you are unable.": A health care surrogate is authorized to make medical decisions when the client is no longer capable of doing so. This ensures that the client’s preferences are respected even if they become incapacitated.