Risk Of Ocular Dryness

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Introduction

Risk Of Ocular Dryness is a defining state of health in which a person is prone to suffer from dry eyes. This nursing diagnosis can affect people of all ages, but it is especially common in people over the age of 50. It is important for registered nurses to be aware of this condition in order to prevent further complications or problems.

Nursing Diagnosis Definition

Risk of Ocular Dryness: At risk of dryness of the eyes due to inadequate lubrication.

Defining Characteristics

Subjectives

• Complaints of foreign body sensation in the eye
• Itching, burning, and redness
• Dryness accompanied by blurred vision

Objectives

• Tearing in the eyes
• Eyes appear dry and lack luster
• Presence of blood vessels in the sclera

Related Factors

• Aging: Aging related changes, in combination with chronic conditions, predispose older adults to dry eye.
• Medication Usage: Use of antihistamine or anti-cholinergic drugs are linked to increased tear production evaporation.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to extreme temperatures, windy conditions, and air pollution can lead to ocular dryness.

Risk Population

People of all ages may be affected by this nursing diagnosis, but especially those over the age of 50. Research suggests that women are two times more likely to experience ocular dryness than men. Other risk populations include contact lens wearers, smokers, computers users, and people who spend long hours in the sun.

Associated Problems

Those suffering from ocular dryness may also develop other conditions such as:

• irritation and discomfort
• infection of the cornea
• ulcers or abrasions of the cornea
• corneal neovascularization
• corneal opacity, surface irregularities, and abnormally shallow tears

Suggestions for Use

Registered nurses should assess the patient’s history, use ophthalmology tests, and establish a comprehensive treatment plan. The goal is to restore vision and reduce potential complications. Some helpful treatments may include artificial tears, oral medications, warm compresses, and punctal occlusion with plugs.

Suggested Alternative Nursing Diagnosis

• Ineffective Tissue Perfusion, Ocular
• Ineffective Blinking
• Impaired Physical Mobility
• Impaired Comfort
• Pain, Chronic

Usage Tips

When writing nursing care plans for this nursing diagnosis it is important to consider the treatment strategies that may be needed. It is also important to ascertain if the patient is able to comply with the suggested treatments.

NOC Results

The outcome criteria used to measure the effectiveness of nursing care for Risk of Ocular Dryness include:

• Vision: Acuity, Clarity, Color discrimination
• Motor Function: Eye movement, coordination, closure
• Communication: Expressing feelings, needs, concerns
• Safety: Protects self from injury, follows safety guidelines
• Comfort: Control of pain, absence of itching

NIC Interventions

After assessing the patient’s condition, the nurse must provide appropriate interventions to support the patient in reducing the associated risks. Possible nursing interventions for Risk of Ocular Dryness include:

• Eye Care: Teach proper hygiene measures, administer eye medications.
• Teaching: Educate patient regarding dryness of the eyes and different treatment options available.
• Monitoring: Asses the patient's response to the treatment, monitor for signs and symptoms of complications.
• Health Promotion: Stress the need for protective eyewear.

Conclusion

Risk Of Ocular Dryness is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but especially those over the age of 50. Registered nurses should be mindful of the symptoms and work towards preventing any further complications. Appropriate assessments and interventions will help to improve the patient’s quality of life and reduce the associated risks.

FAQ

• What are the risk factors for ocular dryness? Age, environmental factors, medication usage, contact lens wear, and smoking are some of the risk factors associated with ocular dryness.
• How can nurses help those affected by ocular dryness? Nurses should assess the patient's history, use ophthalmology tests, and establish a comprehensive treatment plan. They should also educate the patient regarding the different treatment options available and monitor their response to the treatments.