A patient is being discharged after cataract surgery. Discharge instructions should include which of the following statements? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale Lying on the unaffected side helps prevent increased intraocular pressure and accidental trauma to the surgical site during sleep. Positioning is crucial in the immediate postoperative period to ensure that the newly implanted intraocular lens remains stable and that fluid dynamics within the eye are not compromised by gravity or external pressure. This instruction is a standard part of discharge teaching to protect the integrity of the ocular repair and minimize the risk of complications. Choice B rationale Avoiding pressure on the operative eye is vital to prevent wound dehiscence or displacement of the intraocular lens. The client should be instructed to wear an eye shield, especially during sleep, and to avoid rubbing the eye or bending over at the waist. Increased pressure can lead to iris prolapse or internal hemorrhage. Maintaining low intraocular pressure is the primary goal of postoperative care, and preventing external compression is one of the easiest ways to achieve this. Choice C rationale Resuming usual activities immediately is contraindicated after cataract surgery. Clients must avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and any movements that involve straining or bending over, as these actions significantly increase intraocular pressure. Normal activities should be reintroduced gradually and only after the surgeon provides clearance. Patients are typically advised to rest for the first twenty-four hours and limit their physical exertion for several weeks to allow the surgical incision to heal properly. Choice D rationale Moderate to severe pain is not an expected finding after cataract surgery and may indicate a serious complication such as acute glaucoma or infection. Most patients experience only mild discomfort, a scratchy sensation, or light sensitivity. If a patient experiences significant pain, they must contact their surgeon immediately for evaluation. Teaching the patient to distinguish between normal postoperative irritation and pathological pain is a critical component of discharge planning to ensure early intervention if problems arise. Choice E rationale Expecting bleeding, even a small amount, is incorrect for cataract surgery, which is typically a bloodless procedure. Any bright red bleeding or significant subconjunctival hemorrhage should be reported to the physician. While some redness of the sclera is common due to surgical manipulation, actual bleeding from the incision or within the eye is an emergency. Patients should be taught that the eye may look red, but active bleeding is an abnormal finding that requires urgent medical attention.