Final answer:
A primary care provider should urgently refer a patient with presumed retinal detachment to an ophthalmologist and advise the patient to avoid activities that may worsen the condition until they receive specialist care. Treatment may involve laser surgery to reattach the retina.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a primary care provider encounters a patient with a presumed retinal detachment, immediate referral to an ophthalmologist or emergency room is crucial, as time is of the essence to prevent permanent vision loss. The primary care provider should educate the patient on avoiding any activities that could exacerbate the condition, such as heavy lifting or vigorous physical activity, until they are evaluated by an eye specialist. If advanced imaging or immediate evaluation isn't available, the provider should secure an urgent ophthalmology consultation. Treatments for retinal detachment often involve a laser surgery or cryotherapy to create scar tissue that holds the retina in place, as mentioned in the figures provided. The laser surgery procedure uses a focused laser, the lens of the eye, and a device to direct the laser's output to the appropriate spot on the retina to create the necessary scar tissue.