A patient confides to the nurse that he cannot engage in sexual activity. The patient is 27 years old and has no apparent history of chronic illness that would contribute to erectile dysfunction. What does the nurse know will be ordered for this patient to assess his sexual functioning?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Nocturnal penile tumescence tests are used to assess erectile dysfunction in men who are unable to engage in sexual activity. It measures the frequency and strength of erections that occur during sleep, which can provide valuable information about a man's erectile function and whether there may be underlying physiological causes for his inability to engage in sexual activity. This test can help determine if the patient's erectile dysfunction is due to physical or psychological factors. A sperm count, ejaculation capacity tests, and engorgement tests are not typically ordered to assess sexual functioning in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Redness of the eye after cataract surgery can be a sign of infection or inflammation, which are serious complications that require immediate medical attention. Redness may be accompanied by pain, swelling, or discharge, and if left untreated, it can lead to complications that may affect the surgical outcome and the patient's vision. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to contact the office immediately if they notice any redness in their eye following cataract surgery.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Blurred vision is a common adverse effect of pilocarpine, a miotic agent commonly used for open-angle glaucoma. It occurs due to the constriction of the pupil, which can affect the patient's ability to focus clearly. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to explain to the patient that blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of the medication. This reassurance can help alleviate the patient's concerns and improve their understanding of the medication therapy. Holding the next dose and notifying the physician is not necessary in this situation as blurred vision is a known side effect and treating the patient for an allergic reaction or suggesting that the patient put on her glasses would not address the underlying cause of the blurred vision.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate action for the home health nurse to take in this situation where a patient reports distortions when looking at an Amsler grid is to arrange for the patient to be assessed for macular degeneration. Distortions in straight lines on an Amsler grid are a common early symptom of macular degeneration, a progressive eye condition that affects central vision. Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, making assessment and early intervention crucial in preserving vision. It is important for the nurse to take the patient's symptoms seriously and facilitate timely evaluation and management to prevent further vision loss. This would involve referring the patient to an ophthalmologist or an eye care specialist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Distorted lines on an Amsler grid can be an indication of changes in central vision, which is commonly seen in macular degeneration. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to arrange for the patient to visit his ophthalmologist promptly for further evaluation and management. The ophthalmologist will be able to determine the severity of the visual changes, provide appropriate treatment options, and closely monitor the progression of macular degeneration. This proactive approach ensures that the patient receives timely and specialized care for his condition. Options A, B, and D do not directly address the urgency of the situation and the need for specialized ophthalmologic evaluation in cases of macular degeneration.