NURSING CARE RELATED TO THE SENSORY AND
NEUROLOGICAL SYSTEMS
1-20
1-20. DETACHED RETINA
Detachment of the sensory retina from the pigment epithelium of the retina causes loss of clear vision. Tears, rips, or holes in the retina allow the vitreous humor to seep behind the retina, separating it from the epithelium. Unless the holes are sealed, the retina will progressively detach. There will be loss of central vision as well as peripheral vision.
a. Causes of detached retina include:
(1) Trauma (rapid detachment and visual deterioration).
(2) Aging (slow process of deteriorating vision).
b. Signs and symptoms of retinal detachment include:
(1) Flashes of light.
(2) Blurred vision.
(3) Sensations of "particles" or "lights" in the visual fields.
(4) Progressive loss of peripheral vision.
c. Nursing implications:
(1) Detachment of the retina must be corrected surgically. There are many different procedures used, but the objective of all is to seal the retinal holes, ensuring that the retina adheres to the retinal pigment epithelium.
(2) Nursing care should involve all aspects of care for the patient undergoing ophthalmic surgery. Refer to the following paragraphs for care of patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery.
