A nurse is reinforcing preoperative teaching with a client who is scheduled for cataract surgery. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A rationale Bloodshot eyes, or conjunctival injection, are common findings in various ocular conditions and may be present preoperatively due to minor irritation. While any new or severe redness should be assessed, it is not a specific finding that must be reported as an emergency unless accompanied by discharge or pain. The nurse should focus teaching on signs of infection or increased intraocular pressure rather than minor redness. Instructing a patient that they must report simple redness might cause unnecessary anxiety. Choice B rationale Significant brow pain or deep aching after cataract surgery is not a normal or expected finding. In fact, severe pain can indicate a rapid increase in intraocular pressure or a serious complication like acute hemorrhage or infection. Patients should be taught that mild discomfort or a scratchy sensation is normal, but sharp or persistent pain in the brow or eye region requires immediate medical attention. Expecting such pain for three days would lead to a dangerous delay in seeking care. Choice C rationale The application of warm compresses is generally avoided in the immediate postoperative period after cataract surgery unless specifically ordered for a secondary condition. Heat can increase local blood flow and potentially increase inflammation or provide a medium for bacterial growth if the area is not kept sterile. Standard postoperative care focuses on protecting the eye with a shield, using prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops, and avoiding any pressure or heat that could disrupt the surgical incision or the intraocular lens. Choice D rationale Following cataract extraction and the implantation of an intraocular lens, the client can expect a significant improvement in visual acuity as the clouding is removed. While some improvement is often noticed within a few days, it generally takes about two to eight weeks for the eye to heal completely and for the final visual outcome to stabilize. This timeframe allows for the reduction of postoperative corneal edema and for the eye to adjust to the new lens, making this an accurate teaching point.