A nurse is assessing an older adult client at a health fair. Which of the following statements by the client is the nurse's priority?
Explanation & Rationale
A. This describes arcus senilis, a gray or white ring around the cornea caused by lipid deposits. It is common in older adults and usually benign, not requiring urgent intervention. It may indicate hyperlipidemia, but it is not an immediate threat to vision or life. B. Difficulty distinguishing colors, particularly blues and greens, can occur due to normal aging or changes in the lens. This is a gradual change and is not considered an urgent or emergent finding. It may warrant follow-up with an eye care provider but is not time-sensitive. C. This presentation is sudden and acute and can indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma, a medical emergency. Other signs may include blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea, vomiting, and ocular redness. If untreated, increased intraocular pressure can rapidly damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to permanent vision loss. This makes it the priority concern, as it poses an immediate risk to the client’s health. D. This describes presbyopia, an age-related loss of near vision due to decreased lens elasticity. It is gradual and non-emergent and can be corrected with reading glasses or other vision aids.