Asked by Carlos Muniz on May 28, 2024
Verified
Mrs. Whitley, a 61-year-old patient, calls the office this morning. She says she is afraid to drive to the office, because when she woke up this morning, her vision was "funny, like everything is wavering in front of my eyes." She is also seeing flashes of light and floaters. Which of the following statements is your best response to Mrs. Whitley?
A) "I can fit you in at 3:00 this afternoon. Please find a friend or relative to drive you here."
B) "Don't worry, Mrs. Whitley. It sounds like a visual migraine. It will go away soon."
C) "Mrs. Whitley, please have someone drive you to the hospital immediately, or call 911."
D) "It's probably stress. Lie down and rest for a while, and if it doesn't improve, call me back."
E) "We all have episodes like this, Mrs. Whitley. It is just a part of growing older."
Visual Migraine
A neurological syndrome that can cause visual disturbances such as temporary blindness, blurred vision, or light flashes.
Flashes
Sudden, brief bursts of light or heat, or referring to hot flashes, which are sudden feelings of warmth, often associated with menopause.
Floaters
Floaters are small pieces of debris in the eye's vitreous humor that appear as floating spots in one's field of vision, often resulting from age-related changes.
- Recognize the symptoms and appropriate responses to common eye problems.
Verified Answer
VB
Victoria BorjonJun 04, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Mrs. Whitley's symptoms of seeing flashes of light and floaters, along with her description of her vision being "funny," could indicate a serious condition such as retinal detachment, which requires immediate medical attention. Therefore, advising her to seek immediate medical care is the most appropriate response.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the symptoms and appropriate responses to common eye problems.