A nurse is evaluating the plan of care during a postoperative visit for a client who had a retinal reattachment procedure. Which of the following statements indicates the client is following the instructions in the plan of care?

A. Comply with compression therapy:

Compression therapy typically refers to the use of compression garments or devices to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the extremities, particularly in conditions such as venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis.

While compression therapy may be beneficial for certain circulatory disorders, it is not a standard treatment for cardiac tamponade.

Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, leading to increased pressure on the heart and impaired cardiac function.

Treatment for cardiac tamponade involves prompt recognition and intervention to relieve the pressure on the heart, such as pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage of the pericardial effusion.

B. Monitor wounds on lower extremities:

Monitoring wounds on the lower extremities is essential for assessing healing, preventing complications such as infection, and promoting overall wound care.

However, monitoring wounds on the lower extremities is not directly related to the management or monitoring of cardiac tamponade.

In cardiac tamponade, the focus of monitoring is on assessing signs and symptoms of cardiac compromise, such as hypotension, tachycardia, dyspnea, and pulsus paradoxus, rather than wound care.

C. Take antiplatelet medications as ordered:

Antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin or clopidogrel, are commonly prescribed to prevent platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of thrombotic events, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease or a history of myocardial infarction or stroke.

While antiplatelet medications may be part of the long-term management of certain cardiac conditions, they are not specific to the treatment or monitoring of cardiac tamponade.

The primary treatment for cardiac tamponade involves interventions to relieve the pressure on the heart and restore cardiac function, such as pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage of the pericardial effusion.

D. Monitor for gradual onset of symptoms:

Phase II of cardiac tamponade is characterized by a gradual onset of symptoms as the pressure within the pericardial sac increases, leading to impaired cardiac filling and decreased cardiac output.

Symptoms may include dyspnea, fatigue, orthopnea, tachycardia, and chest discomfort, which may develop gradually over time.

Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and intervention to prevent further deterioration and improve outcomes in patients with cardiac tamponade.

A. Respiratory rate of 12/min: A respiratory rate of 12/min is within the normal adult range (12-20 breaths per minute). In the context of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), respiratory rate changes might be noted as part of the Cushing's reflex (which is characterized by bradycardia, hypertension, and abnormal respiratory patterns like Cheyne-Stokes or ataxic breathing), but a rate of 12/min on its own is not indicative of a worsening condition. However, if the patient begins to show signs of irregular or abnormal breathing patterns, this would raise concern.

B. Blood pressure of 108/74 mm Hg: This blood pressure is also within the normal range and does not suggest a worsening of intracranial pressure. In fact, ICP can lead to a rise in blood pressure (due to the body's compensatory mechanisms, known as Cushing's triad), along with bradycardia and abnormal respirations. Thus, a stable blood pressure like 108/74 mm Hg is not concerning in this context.

C. Changes to pupil size and shape: Changes in pupil size, shape, or reactivity are significant indicators of worsening intracranial pressure. Unequal pupils (anisocoria), sluggish or absent response to light, and fixed dilated pupils are signs of brainstem compression or damage, which often occur as ICP increases. This could indicate herniation or severe brain injury, which are worsening conditions.

D. Swelling of the optic nerve: Swelling of the optic nerve, or papilledema, is another important sign of increased intracranial pressure. It occurs due to increased pressure within the skull, which causes congestion and swelling of the optic disc. This finding can be seen on fundoscopy and indicates a worsening condition, as it suggests elevated pressure affecting the brain.

E. Decreasing Glasgow Coma scores: A decreasing Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is a critical indicator of worsening neurologic function in a patient with increased ICP. The GCS is used to assess a patient's level of consciousness, and a decreasing score suggests that the brain's function is deteriorating. This can be caused by worsening edema, brain herniation, or other severe neurological impairments associated with elevated ICP.