A home health nurse is teaching an older adult client who just had cataract surgery. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because applying the medication when you are experiencing eye pain can be ineffective or harmful for treating open-angle glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition that causes increased pressure inside the eye and damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss. Eye pain is not a common symptom of open-angle glaucoma, but rather an indication of acute angle closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The nurse should instruct the client to apply the medication as prescribed, regardless of pain level, and seek medical attention if they experience severe eye pain, headache, nausea, or blurred vision.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because using the medication only until the intraocular pressure returns to normal can cause recurrence or worsening of open-angle glaucoma. Intraocular pressure is the pressure inside
the eye that can affect eye health and vision. Normal intraocular pressure ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg, but it can vary depending on age, time of day, or other factors. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor their intraocular pressure regularly and report any changes to their provider, but not to stop using
the medication without consulting their provider first.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because using the medication for approximately 10 days, then gradually tapering off can cause rebound or adverse effects of open-angle glaucoma. The medication for open-angle glaucoma can be either beta-blockers, such as timolol, or cholinergic agents, such as pilocarpine, which work by reducing fluid production or increasing fluid drainage in the eye. The nurse should instruct the client to follow their provider's instructions on how long and how much to use the medication and not to change or discontinue it abruptly without their provider's approval.
Choice D reason: This is correct because applying the medication on a regular schedule for the rest of your life can help control and prevent the progression of open-angle glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is a lifelong condition that requires consistent and continuous treatment to maintain normal intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss. The nurse should instruct the client to apply the medication at the same time every day and not to miss or skip any doses. The nurse should also teach the client how to store, handle, and administer the medication properly and safely.

Choice A Reason: Reporting itching if it becomes bothersome is part of client teaching, as it may indicate inflammation or infection of the ear canal. External otitis is also known as swimmer's ear, as it can be caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing.

Choice B Reason: Using earplugs when swimming is part of client teaching, as it can prevent water from entering and irritating the ear canal. External otitis can be prevented by keeping the ear dry and avoiding trauma or foreign objects.

Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. Inserting a cotton-tip applicator to remove excess wax is not part of client teaching, as it can damage or scratch the ear canal and increase the risk of infection. Wax helps protect and lubricate the ear canal and should not be removed unless it causes hearing impairment or discomfort.

Choice D Reason: Using a hairdryer set to low, 6 inches away from ear is part of client teaching, as it can help dry the ear canal after swimming or bathing. External otitis can be treated by applying warm compresses, using topical antibiotics or antifungals, and taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.