Final answer:
Postoperative care after cataract extraction involves proper patient positioning to protect the surgical site and confirmations by the surgical team on numerous pre and post-surgical considerations. For nearsighted patients, the intraocular lens power is less than the natural lens to correct distant vision, and additional reading glasses may be necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The care of a patient following cataract extraction requires careful consideration of their postoperative positioning. After cataract surgery, especially involving the replacement of a cataract-clouded lens with an intraocular lens, it is crucial to ensure the protection of the surgical site. The nurse in the recovery room must position the patient to avoid pressure on the right eye that underwent surgery.
Key considerations for recovery discussed by the surgical team include the patient's identity, surgical site, procedure, anticipated critical events, concerns specific to the patient's health and anesthesia, sterility confirmation, equipment availability, and airway management. Before the surgery with a time out, and before induction of anesthesia, necessary confirmations are made by the team. A well-coordinated recovery process ensures that aspects like the patient's known allergies and the functioning of vital sign monitors, such as the pulse oximeter, are managed effectively.
Regarding the intraocular lens implanted during cataract surgery, if the patient was nearsighted, the power of the new lens will typically be less than the removed lens to correct the vision for distance. Depending on the lens chosen and the patient's visual needs, reading glasses may still be required for close work post-surgery.