Final answer:
Nystagmus, characterized by involuntary rhythmic, horizontal eye movements observed during an eye examination, should be thoroughly documented by a nurse. It could indicate a normal variant or an underlying condition, such as internuclear ophthalmoplegia, which disrupts conjugate horizontal gaze. Further testing is necessary to evaluate the underlying issues, including assessing the accommodation-convergence reflex.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse observes involuntary rhythmic, horizontal eye movements in a patient, this is referred to as nystagmus. This finding can be thoroughly documented in the patient's medical records for further examination and treatment. An Asian patient's eye movements can be part of a normal variant; however, if accompanied by other symptoms, it could signify an underlying condition. Given the description, it is likely that the nurse is witnessing nystagmus during the eye examination. It is important for the nurse to note these movements' direction, amplitude, frequency, and if they are present in one or both eyes.
Internuclear ophthalmoplegia can cause a similar appearance of eye movement, where there is a failure of conjugate horizontal gaze resulting in one eye not moving in unison with the other. To properly evaluate this, further testing of eye movements, such as watching for the coordination of the eyes during convergence or tracking movement, would be necessary to clearly define the underlying issue. The accommodation-convergence reflex should also be assessed to determine if there is proper coordination of the skeletal muscles for convergence and of the smooth muscles of the ciliary body for accommodation.