A hospice nurse is visiting with the son of a client who has terminal cancer. The son reports sleeping very little during the past week due to caring for his mother. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

This statement indicates that the client understands the need to avoid activities that can increase intraocular pressure, such as lifting heavy objects, bending over, coughing, or straining. An increase in intraocular pressure can cause complications such as bleeding, inflammation, or recurrent detachment of the retina.

Choice B is wrong because sewing is a near-vision activity that can cause eye strain and fatigue. The client should avoid near-vision activities for at least two weeks after surgery.

Choice C is wrong because jogging is a vigorous exercise that can cause jarring movements and increase blood pressure. The client should avoid vigorous exercise for at least six weeks after surgery.

Choice D is wrong because bending at the waist can increase intraocular pressure and compromise the healing of the retina. The client should avoid bending at the waist for at least two weeks after surgery.

The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye.

It converts light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain through the optic nerve.

A detached retina occurs when the retina separates from its underlying tissue due to a tear, hole, or break in the retina.

This can cause vision loss or blindness if not treated promptly.

The most common treatment for a detached retina is a surgery called vitrectomy. It typically involves three main steps:

• The vitreous gel inside the eye must be removed.
• A gas bubble is injected into the eye to hold the retina against its underlying tissue while allowing it to heal.
• Laser or cryotherapy creates scar tissue that helps reattach the retina.

The recovery time after retinal detachment surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the detachment, the type of surgery, and the individual healing process of the client.

Some general guidelines to follow after retinal detachment surgery are:

• Rest your eyes for at least two weeks after the surgery.
• Wear sunglasses when outdoors, as bright light may cause discomfort and strain on the eye that has been operated upon.
• If your doctor recommends, use artificial tears every few hours to keep moisture in the eye and lubricate it correctly.
• Take your medicines as directed by your doctor.
• You may use ice on your eye to reduce swelling

This statement shows respect for the client’s spirituality and offers support without imposing the nurse’s beliefs or values. Spirituality focuses on the significance and purpose of life and can help clients cope with depression and terminal illness.

Choice B is wrong because it implies that the client needs medication to deal with their feelings, which can be dismissive and insensitive.

Antianxiety medication may be appropriate for some clients, but it should not be the first option.

Choice C is wrong because it assumes that the client is ready to discuss advance directives, which may not be the case.

Advance directives are legal documents that specify the client’s wishes for end-of-life care, such as resuscitation, organ donation, or power of attorney.

The nurse should assess the client’s readiness and understanding before initiating this conversation.

Choice D is wrong because it suggests that the client is close to death and needs hospice care, which can be discouraging and frightening. Hospice care is an interdisciplinary team effort that provides palliative care for clients who have a terminal illness and a life expectancy of less than 6 months.

The nurse should explain the benefits of hospice care and obtain the client’s consent before making a referral.