An older adult female asks the practical nurse (PN) if she should get a Herpes zoster (shingles) vaccination because she gets cold sores on her mouth when she is sick or stressed. Which response should the PN provide?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. It is often associated with increased intraocular pressure, which can compress the nerve fibers and reduce blood flow to the retina. The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, causes gradual loss of peripheral vision.

The other options are not correct because:

A. Macular edema is a condition that causes swelling and fluid accumulation in the macula, the central part of the retina that is responsible for sharp and detailed vision. It can cause blurred or distorted vision, but it does not affect the optic nerve or the peripheral vision.

B. Cataract is a condition that causes clouding of the lens, which is the transparent structure that focuses light onto the retina. It can cause blurred, dim, or yellowed vision, but it does not affect the optic nerve or the intraocular pressure.

C. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina and causes bleeding, leakage, or scarring. It can cause blurred, fluctuating, or darkened vision, but it does not affect the optic nerve or the intraocular pressure.

The correct answer is choice A: Record the findings and report the symptoms to the charge nurse.

Choice A rationale:

The practical nurse (PN) should first record the client's findings, including the progressively decreasing appetite, increased daytime bed hours, and refusal to participate in planned activities. This documentation is essential for accurate communication and continuity of care. After recording the findings, the PN should promptly report the symptoms to the charge nurse. Reporting allows for timely intervention and assessment by the charge nurse or other healthcare providers to address the client's issues effectively.

Choice B rationale:

Asking family members to visit more often is not the best action to take in this situation. While family support is important, the client's symptoms suggest possible underlying health concerns that need professional evaluation and management. Relying solely on increased family visits might delay appropriate healthcare interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Motivating the client by offering their favorite foods as a prize might not be appropriate at this stage. The client's decreased appetite and refusal to participate in activities could be indicators of underlying health issues that need to be addressed first. Moreover, encouraging unhealthy eating habits as a "prize”. could be counterproductive to the client's well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Withholding medications that may cause side effects is not a suitable action without consulting the healthcare provider responsible for the client's care. Abruptly stopping medications could lead to adverse effects or complications, and it is essential to involve the healthcare team in making decisions about medication management.