In using the ophthalmoscope to assess a patient’s eyes, the nurse notices a red glow in the patient’s pupils. Based on this finding, what should the nurse do?

Choice A reason: Checking the ophthalmoscope’s light source is unnecessary unless the device malfunctions. The red glow is a normal finding, reflecting light off the retina’s blood vessels, not indicating equipment issues, making this an inappropriate action. Choice B reason: The red glow, or red reflex, is a normal finding during ophthalmoscopy, caused by light reflecting off the vascular retina. It indicates a clear optical pathway, ruling out opacities like cataracts, making this the correct action to document as normal. Choice C reason: An opacity in the lens or cornea (e.g., cataract or corneal scar) would block the red reflex, causing a dark or absent glow. The presence of a red glow indicates a clear media, making this suspicion incorrect. Choice D reason: Stopping the exam and referring the patient is unwarranted, as the red glow is a normal finding. Referral is only needed for abnormal findings like absent reflex or opacities, making this an unnecessary and incorrect action.