Physiological Adaptation Q 94
Nurse Joan is assigned to come for a client who has just undergone eye surgery. Nurse Joan plans to teach the client activities that are permitted during the postoperative period. Which of the following is best recommended for the client?
A. Watching circus
B. Bending over
C. Watching TV
D. Lifting objects
Correct Answer: C. Watching TV
Watching TV is permissible because the eye does not need to move rapidly with this activity, and it does not increase intraocular pressure. Once the patient gets home, it is recommended that they rest their eyes and nap. Several hours post-surgery, most people are able to watch some television or look at a computer screen for a short period of time. Because cataract surgery is only performed on one eye at a time, the patient may notice an imbalance in the vision until the second eye is operated on (usually 1–4 weeks later).
Option A: Watching a circus would require a lot of eye movement and might strain the eyes. It is normal for vision to be blurry in the beginning – the eye needs to heal and adjust. Vision will normally begin to improve within a few days of the surgery. It’s also normal for the eye to feel itchy and to experience mild discomfort for a couple of days – the doctor will ask the client to wear an eye patch or protective shield at night to ensure they don’t rub their eye while they sleep. This discomfort should disappear after a few days.
Option B: Bending over increases intraocular pressure. Immediately after the procedure, avoid bending over to prevent putting extra pressure on the eye. If at all possible, don’t sneeze or vomit right after surgery. Don’t rub the eye after surgery.
Option D: Lifting objects could cause an increase in intraocular pressure. Don’t do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few weeks. Be careful walking around after surgery, and don’t bump into doors or other objects. Don’t expose the eye to irritants such as dust, dirt, wind, and pollen during the first few weeks after surgery.