A nurse is planning care for an older adult client.
The nurse should plan to monitor the client for which of the following?

The correct answer is d. "Seeing spots is a manifestation of diabetic retinopathy."

Choice A rationale:

• Clouding of the lens is not a manifestation of diabetic retinopathy.It is a characteristic of cataracts,a condition that involves a different eye structure and has a different etiology.
• Diabetic retinopathy specifically affects the retina,which is the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye.It does not directly involve the lens.
• It's crucial to clarify this distinction for the client to ensure accurate understanding of their condition and potential symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

• Increased intraocular pressure is not the cause of diabetic retinopathy.It is the primary feature of glaucoma,another eye condition with distinct causes and consequences.
• Diabetic retinopathy is primarily driven by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged high blood sugar levels.
• Explaining this difference to the client can help prevent confusion and promote appropriate preventive measures.

Choice C rationale:

• While regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management of diabetic retinopathy,the recommended frequency is more often than every 2 years.
• The American Diabetes Association recommends that individuals with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least annually.
• More frequent exams may be necessary depending on the individual's risk factors and the severity of their diabetes.

Choice D rationale:

• Seeing spots is a common and significant symptom of diabetic retinopathy.It occurs when blood vessels in the retina leak fluid or bleed,causing disruptions in vision.
• Other potential symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
  • Blurred vision
  • Floaters (dark specks or strings that move across the visual field)
  • Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
  • Loss of central vision
  • Distortion of colors
  • Blind spots

Choice A rationale:

The CDC and other health organizations recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week for overall health, which includes benefits for bone health. Weight-bearing exercises are particularly important for preventing osteoporosis.

Choice B rationale:

Performing vigorous exercise at least 2 times per week is generally recommended for maintaining cardiovascular health and overall fitness. However, for a client at risk for osteoporosis, the primary focus should be on calcium and vitamin D intake to support bone health and density. Vigorous exercise alone may not provide the necessary nutrients for bone health.

Choice C rationale:

Taking 400 IU of vitamin D supplement each day is a reasonable recommendation to support bone health, as vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption. However, the primary concern for a client at risk for osteoporosis is calcium intake. While vitamin D is important, calcium supplementation is more critical for addressing this specific issue.

Choice D rationale:

The RDA for calcium is generally 1,000 mg for adults up to age 50 and 1,200 mg for women over 50 and men over 70. For someone at risk of osteoporosis, ensuring adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health.