39. A common symptom for Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder in women, is dry eyes. A client asks a nurse what she can do for relief. Which suggestion given by the nurse would be correct for initial treatment?
39. A common symptom for Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder in women, is dry eyes. A client asks a nurse what she can do for relief. Which suggestion given by the nurse would be correct for initial treatment?
. Use artificial tears 3 to 4 times a day.
. Use cyclosporine A (Restasis) ophthalmic drops.
. Schedule punctal occlusion.
. Use pilocarpine drops 3 times a day.
Test-Taking Tip
Think conservative treatment initially.
Content Area: Adult Health, Sensory; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Expected Effects/Outcomes
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Answer 1 is correct because over-the-counter artificial tears are effective for dry eyes initially. Answer 2 is incorrect because conservative treatment, such as artificial tears, is indicated before use of a prescriptive treatment to increase tear production and reduce inflammation. Answer 3 is incorrect because this would slow the rate of tear drainage and more tears would stay on the eyes. Answer 4 is incorrect because pilocarpine drops are ordered to treat dry mouth, not dry eyes.