Question

A client with hyperthyroidism presents with a complaint of a gritty feeling in her eyes. Over the past week, her visual acuity has diminished, and her ability to see colors has changed. She also has a feeling of pressure behind her eyes. The next step for the nurse practitioner is to:

a. Order a thyroid ultrasound.

b. Refer the client for immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist.

c. Order a total thyroxine (T4).

d. Prescribe a beta-adrenergic blocker.

Answer 1

The next step for the nurse practitioner is to refer the client for immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist.

Step-by-step explanation:

The next step for the nurse practitioner is to refer the client for immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist. The client's symptoms, including a gritty feeling in the eyes, diminished visual acuity, changes in color vision, and a feeling of pressure behind the eyes, indicate a potential eye problem. An ophthalmologist specializes in diagnosing and treating eye conditions, and they will be able to perform a thorough examination and provide appropriate treatment or referral.