An older adult patient asks the nurse what caused his cataract. The nurse's response is based on which information?

A. While it may be important to inform the parents later, this is not the immediate priority. The first step should be to assess and manage the current situation before involving the parents.
B. This is a reasonable action to help soothe the itching and irritation caused by contact dermatitis. However, before applying compresses, it’s crucial to ensure that the area is clean and that there is no potential for worsening the condition.
C. This may be necessary if the reaction is severe or worsening, but in this case, the student is exhibiting signs consistent with contact dermatitis, which can often be managed effectively at school without immediate medical intervention.
D. Washing the affected area with soap and water helps remove any potential irritants or allergens that may be causing the dermatitis. This action can help prevent the condition from worsening and relieve some of the symptoms.

A. Congenital cataracts are present at birth and are relatively rare. In older adults, cataracts are primarily associated with age-related changes rather than congenital factors.
B. While certain medications used to treat asthma, like corticosteroids, can contribute to the development of cataracts, asthma itself is not a direct cause of cataracts. This connection is not strong enough to be considered a common cause.
C. While eye injuries can lead to cataract formation, they are not the most common cause, especially in the older adult population. Most cataracts develop due to age-related changes rather than trauma.
D. The most prevalent cause of cataracts, especially in older adults, is aging. As people get older, changes in the lens of the eye can lead to clouding, resulting in cataracts. Factors like UV exposure, smoking, and certain medical conditions may also contribute, but aging is the primary and most common factor.