The nurse in the eye clinic is examining an older-adult client who says "I see small spots that move around in front of my eyes." Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although "floaters" are usually caused by vitreous liquefaction and are common in aging clients, they can be caused by hemorrhage into the vitreous humur or by retinal tears, so the nurse's first action will be to examine the retina and posterior chamber. Although the ophthalmologist will examine the client, the presence of spots or floaters in a
65-year-old is not an emergency. The spots may indicate retinal damage, but the nurse should assess the eye further before discussing this with the client.

The Nurse in the Eye Clinic Is Examining an Older-Adult