Final answer:
A nurse would anticipate a client with chronic bilateral glaucoma to report loss of peripheral vision akin to tunnel vision, rather than specks floating in the eyes, which are not specifically linked to glaucoma but rather to other eye conditions or the aging process.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the admission assessment on a client with chronic bilateral glaucoma, a statement that the nurse might anticipate from the client could relate to issues with peripheral vision. Glaucoma typically results in the progressive loss of peripheral vision, initially sparing central vision. This may be described as tunnel vision by the patient. The build-up of pressure within the eye, if not adequately controlled, can lead to significant visual impairment. While specks floating in the eyes, known as floaters, are common, they are not specifically associated with glaucoma but rather with the natural aging process of the eye or other eye conditions.
Individuals over 40 should have routine tests to measure intraocular pressure (IOP), which if elevated, denotes the potential for glaucoma. High IOP can cause the eye to deform less and rebound more vigorously than normal when a force is exerted on the anesthetized eye during examination. If left unchecked, glaucoma can lead to bilateral hemianopia, where the patient loses the ability to see objects to their right and left while retaining some central vision.