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

Protein undergoes numerous changes

Alteration in Metabolism Increase in Na, Ca

contents, decrease in Ascorbic acid, protein contents and K

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

The client is prescribed with Fosamax, a biphosphate. Which information should the nurse teach? A. B. C. D. Take this medication with a full glass of water. Take this with breakfast to prevent GI upset. Use sunscreen to prevent sensitivity to sunlight. This medication increases calcium absorption.