Question

The charge nurse observes a newly hired nurse performing all the following interventions for a patient who has just undergone right cataract removal and an intraocular lens implant. Which one requires that the charge nurse intervene?

a. The nurse leaves the eye shield in place.
b. The nurse encourages the patient to cough.
c. The nurse elevates the patient's head to 45 degrees.
d. The nurse applies corticosteroid drops to the right eye.

Answer 1

The charge nurse should intervene when the newly hired nurse applies corticosteroid drops to the right eye after cataract removal and intraocular lens implant, as this can increase the risk of serious complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The charge nurse should intervene when the newly hired nurse applies corticosteroid drops to the right eye after cataract removal and intraocular lens implant. Corticosteroid drops are typically not used after cataract surgery because they can increase the risk of serious complications, such as infection or high pressure in the eye (glaucoma).

The correct interventions for a patient who has just undergone cataract removal and intraocular lens implant include:

1. Leaving the eye shield in place to protect the eye from accidental injury or rubbing.
2. Encouraging the patient to cough, which helps to clear secretion and prevent respiratory complications.
3. Elevating the patient's head to 45 degrees to promote comfort and reduce the risk of postoperative complications.