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    RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam

    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. "In the last day, I have had a severe headache and pain around my right eye.": A sudden severe headache with eye pain can indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma, which requires immediate intervention to prevent rapid and permanent vision loss. This condition causes a dangerous rise in intraocular pressure and is a medical emergency. B. "I can't seem to get reading materials far enough away to see the words.": This statement suggests presbyopia, a common age-related change in which the lens becomes less elastic. While bothersome, it is not urgent and can be managed with corrective lenses. It does not pose a threat to the client’s immediate vision. C. "I've noticed that there is a gray ring around the colored part of my eye.": A gray ring, known as arcus senilis, is a normal finding in older adults caused by lipid deposits. It does not impair vision or require urgent intervention. This condition is benign and does not indicate acute pathology. D. "I'm having more difficulty telling the difference between blues and greens.": Difficulty distinguishing colors, especially blue-green tones, is a normal part of aging due to changes in the lens. While it may affect daily activities, it does not indicate an emergency or serious ocular disease.

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