While working at the triage desk in the local emergency department, which of the following patients is likely having a medical emergency and needs to be seen first?
A) A 17-year-old high school student who has a red, itchy eye
B) A 55-year-old truck driver complaining of sudden onset of ocular pain and blurred vision
C) A 45-year-old school teacher complaining of a red eye that is draining yellow secretions
D) An infant with red eyes who is irritable and refusing to eat

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Attacks of increased intraocular pressure are manifested by ocular pain and blurred vision caused by corneal edema. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is an ophthalmic emergency. Treatment is directed at reducing the intraocular pressure, usually with pharmacologic agents.

While Working at the Triage Desk in the Local Emergency