Cataract

Benjo M. Dela Cruz

Cataract

• Developmental or degenerative opacity of the lens

• Primary cause of vision reduction and blindness worldwide

• Most common is the age-related or senile cataract

Risk Factors

• Cumulative exposure to ultraviolet light

• People who live in high altitudes or who work in bright sunlight

• Long term corticosteroid use

• Trauma

• Glassblowers and welders

Pathophysiology

Decrease in O2 uptake

Increase in water content

Cellular dehydration

Increase in Na, Ca contents,

decrease in Ascorbic acid,

protein contents and K

Protein undergoes numerous changes

Alteration in Metabolism

Clinical Manifestations

• Painless, blurry vision

• Dim surroundings, “glasses always need cleaning”

• Glare

• Can see in low light

• Cloudy lens

• Red reflex is distorted or absent

Clinical Manifestations

• Myopic shift

• Astigmatism

• Monocular diplopia

• Color shift

Surgical Management

• Phacoemulsification

• Lens Replacement

• Aphakic Lenses

• Contact Lenses

• Intraocular lenses

Nursing Management

• Wear sunglasses or metal eye shield

• Avoid lying on the operative side

• Keep activity light

• Avoid pushing, lifting or pulling objects heavier than 15lbs

• Avoid bending or stooping for an extended period

Questions

Benjo M. Dela Cruz

Which medication is contraindicated for a client diagnosed with leukemia?

A.Bactrim, a sulfa antibiotic.B.Morphine, a narcotic analgesic.C.Epogen, a biologic response modifier.D.Gleevec, a genetic blocking agent.

Which priority intervention should the day surgery nurse implement for a client who had a right knee arthroscopy?

A. Encourage the client to perform range of motion exercises.B. Monitor the amount and color of the urine.C. Check the client’s pulses distally and assess the toes.D. Monitor the client’s vital signs.

The client is prescribed with Fosamax, a biphosphate. Which information should the nurse teach?

A. Take this medication with a full glass of water.B. Take this with breakfast to prevent GI upset.C. Use sunscreen to prevent sensitivity to sunlight.D. This medication increases calcium absorption.