A 45-year-old patient has been prescribed a topical antibiotic for an ear infection. What is the correct way to administer this medication?

Choice A Reason:

Resuming the use of contact lenses 48 hours after retinal detachment surgery is not recommended. Postoperative care guidelines typically advise against wearing contact lenses until the eye has sufficiently healed to prevent irritation and infection. The exact duration will depend on the surgeon’s assessment and instructions.

Choice B Reason:

Driving 12 to 24 hours after the procedure is not advisable. Patients are usually instructed to avoid driving until their vision has stabilized and they have received clearance from their eye doctor. This period can vary but often extends beyond the first 24 hours post-surgery to ensure safety.

Choice C Reason:

Lying with the face up for 2 weeks following the procedure is incorrect. In many cases, patients are required to maintain a face-down position to help the retina reattach properly, especially if a gas bubble was used during surgery. The specific positioning instructions will depend on the type of surgery performed and the surgeon’s recommendations.

Choice D Reason:

Refraining from lifting objects that weigh over 15 lb is an appropriate instruction. Heavy lifting can increase intraocular pressure and strain the eye, potentially disrupting the healing process. Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during the recovery period to ensure optimal healing.

Choice A Reason:

Warm and moist skin is not a typical manifestation of hypoglycemia. Instead, hypoglycemia often causes symptoms such as cold, clammy skin due to the body’s response to low blood sugar levels. Warm and moist skin can be associated with other conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or fever, but not hypoglycemia.

Choice B Reason:

A decreased appetite is not a common symptom of hypoglycemia. In fact, hypoglycemia can sometimes cause increased hunger as the body signals the need for more glucose. Symptoms of hypoglycemia are more related to the body’s immediate response to low blood sugar, such as shakiness, sweating, and confusion.

Choice C Reason:

Increased thirst is a symptom more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels are high, the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through urine, leading to dehydration and increased thirst. Hypoglycemia, on the other hand, does not typically cause increased thirst.

Choice D Reason:

Feeling shaky is a classic symptom of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels drop, the body releases adrenaline, which can cause shakiness, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for individuals with diabetes to take immediate action to raise their blood sugar levels and prevent severe hypoglycemia.