Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva – the transparent membrane covering the eye’s white part and inner eyelid. This nursing diagnosis guide focuses on identifying symptoms, preventing complications, and implementing effective treatment strategies for optimal patient outcomes.
Causes (Related to)
Conjunctivitis can develop from various factors, affecting patient care approaches and treatment strategies:
- Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus)
- Viral infection (Adenovirus)
- Allergic reactions
- Chemical irritants
- Contact lens complications
Predisposing factors include:
- Poor hand hygiene
- Contact with infected individuals
- Seasonal allergies
- Weakened immune system
- Environmental irritants
Signs and Symptoms (As evidenced by)
Proper identification of signs and symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Subjective: (Patient reports)
- Eye irritation or discomfort
- Foreign body sensation
- Burning or itching
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Excessive tearing
- Eye discharge
Objective: (Nurse assesses)
- Redness of conjunctiva
- Edema of conjunctiva
- Purulent or mucoid discharge
- Crusting of eyelids
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Excessive tearing
- Photophobia
Expected Outcomes
Successful management of conjunctivitis is indicated by:
- Resolution of eye redness and discharge within 5-7 days
- Improved comfort level
- Prevention of spread to unaffected eye or other individuals
- Proper medication administration
- Demonstrated understanding of prevention measures
- Return to normal daily activities
- No complications or vision impairment
Nursing Assessment
Evaluate Eye Condition
- Assess the type and color of discharge
- Document the extent of redness
- Monitor vision changes
- Check for corneal involvement
- Evaluate pain level
Review Medical History
- Note onset and progression
- Document previous episodes
- Check for allergies
- Review current medications
- Assess risk factors
Monitor Complications
- Check for corneal involvement
- Assess vision changes
- Monitor for systemic symptoms
- Document spread to other eye
- Evaluate treatment response
Assess Knowledge
- Evaluate understanding of the condition
- Check medication compliance
- Review hygiene practices
- Document prevention knowledge
- Assess self-care ability
Nursing Care Plans
Nursing Care Plan 1: Acute Eye Pain
Nursing Diagnosis Statement:
Acute Eye Pain related to inflammatory process of conjunctiva as evidenced by reports of burning sensation and foreign body feeling in eye.
Related Factors:
- Inflammatory response
- Chemical irritation
- Infection
- Environmental factors
Nursing Interventions and Rationales:
- Assess pain characteristics and severity
Rationale: Establishes baseline and monitors treatment effectiveness - Apply cool compresses
Rationale: Reduces inflammation and provides comfort - Administer prescribed eye medications
Rationale: Treats underlying cause and manages symptoms
Desired Outcomes:
- The patient reports decreased eye discomfort
- Patient demonstrates proper eye care techniques
- The patient maintains eye comfort at a manageable level
Nursing Care Plan 2: Risk for Infection Transmission
Nursing Diagnosis Statement:
Risk for Infection Transmission related to the highly contagious nature of conjunctivitis as evidenced by active infection and close contact with others.
Related Factors:
- Contagious microorganisms
- Poor hand hygiene
- Limited knowledge of transmission prevention
- Close contact environments
Nursing Interventions and Rationales:
- Teach proper hand washing technique
Rationale: Reduces risk of cross-contamination - Demonstrate proper eye care hygiene
Rationale: Prevents spread to the unaffected eye - Educate about avoiding shared items
Rationale: Minimizes transmission risk
Desired Outcomes:
- The patient demonstrates proper hand hygiene
- No spread to unaffected eye or other individuals
- Patient verbalizes understanding of prevention measures
Nursing Care Plan 3: Disturbed Visual Sensory Perception
Nursing Diagnosis Statement:
Disturbed Visual Sensory Perception related to inflammation of conjunctiva as evidenced by complaints of blurred vision and photophobia.
Related Factors:
- Inflammatory process
- Excessive tearing
- Accumulated discharge
- Edema of conjunctiva
Nursing Interventions and Rationales:
- Assess visual acuity
Rationale: Monitors for vision changes - Provide appropriate lighting
Rationale: Reduces eye strain - Assist with activities requiring visual acuity
Rationale: Ensures patient safety
Desired Outcomes:
- The patient maintains normal visual acuity
- The patient reports decreased photophobia
- The patient performs daily activities safely
Nursing Care Plan 4: Deficient Knowledge
Nursing Diagnosis Statement:
Deficient Knowledge related to unfamiliarity with conjunctivitis management as evidenced by incorrect medication administration and poor hygiene practices.
Related Factors:
- Lack of exposure to information
- Misinterpretation of information
- Limited cognitive ability
- Language barriers
Nursing Interventions and Rationales:
- Provide education about the condition
Rationale: Increases understanding and compliance - Demonstrate proper medication administration
Rationale: Ensures effective treatment - Review prevention strategies
Rationale: Prevents recurrence and spread
Desired Outcomes:
- The patient verbalizes understanding of the condition
- The patient demonstrates proper medication technique
- Patient implements prevention strategies
Nursing Care Plan 5: Anxiety
Nursing Diagnosis Statement:
Anxiety related to vision changes and fear of complications as evidenced by expressed concerns and increased inquiries about the condition.
Related Factors:
- Threat to vision
- Uncertainty about outcome
- Lack of knowledge
- Impact on daily activities
Nursing Interventions and Rationales:
- Assess anxiety level
Rationale: Establishes baseline for intervention - Provide clear information
Rationale: Reduces fear and uncertainty - Teach coping strategies
Rationale: Helps manage anxiety
Desired Outcomes:
- The patient reports decreased anxiety
- The patient demonstrates effective coping strategies
- The patient verbalizes realistic expectations
References
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