Question

The nurse provides care for an older adult client who requires bilateral eye patches. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take with this client?

1. Sedate the client until the eye patches are removed.
2. Place the client in a private room.
3. Maintain a calm, dark environment.
4. Frequently touch the client while speaking.

Answer 1

The nurse should frequently touch the client while speaking to maintain their awareness and provide comfort and orientation cues, rather than sedating or isolating them.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing care for an older adult client who requires bilateral eye patches, it is appropriate for the nurse to maintain a safe environment for the client who now has impaired vision. The most appropriate action among the options given is to frequently touch the client while speaking. This helps the client to be aware of the nurse's presence and can provide comfort and orientation cues. Sedation is not a standard procedure simply for wearing eye patches, and placing the client in a private room or maintaining a dark environment may not necessarily address their immediate needs. Instead, clear communication and a reassuring touch are beneficial in this situation.