Following laser trabeculoplasty surgery for open-angle glaucoma, the client reports acute pain deep within the eye. Which action should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
RationaleA. Acute pain following laser trabeculoplasty could indicate increased intraocular pressure, inflammation, or other complications. Reporting the pain to the surgeon allows for prompt evaluation and intervention, which may include further assessment of intraocular pressure, examination of the surgical site, and consideration of additional treatment modalities such as pain management or anti- inflammatory medications.B. Postoperative antibiotics are typically prescribed to prevent infection after surgery. However, acute pain alone may not indicate an infection, and starting antibiotics without assessing the cause of pain could delay appropriate management. Antibiotics are not indicated as the first-line response to acute pain in this context.C. Eye shields are commonly used after eye surgery to protect the eye from light and potential trauma. While important for protecting the eye, applying eye shields addresses a different aspect of postoperative care (protecting the eye from external factors), rather than addressing the acute pain reported by the client.D. Nausea and vomiting can sometimes occur postoperatively due to anesthesia or medications. However, administering an antiemetic is not the appropriate action in response to acute eye pain following laser trabeculoplasty. It does not address the underlying cause of the pain and is not part of the standard immediate management for this situation.