41. A client who is scheduled for surgery to correct a retinal detachment should be positioned:
. On the side opposite of the retinal detachment.
. Upright with face down.
. On the side of the retinal detachment.
. Prone with face supported by pillow ring.
Test-Taking Tip
Visualize each position and how it would contribute to reattaching the retina to the back of the eye.
Content Area: Adult Health, Sensory; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Therapeutic Procedures
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the desired outcome is to reduce intraocular pressure. Upright and possibly face down would be preferred. Answer 2 is correct because detachments or tears are toward the back of the eye. A gas bubble is frequently used to flatten the retina (pneumatic retinopexy), and the client must be positioned to make the bubble float into position. Answer 3 is incorrect because the desired outcome is to reduce intraocular pressure. Upright and possible face down would be preferred. Answer 4 is incorrect because the client's head should be higher than the heart. Upright and face down would be desired.