What should a nurse instruct a client to do on the day after a detached retinal repair?

After a detached retinal repair, it is crucial for the client to avoid activities that could strain or adversely affect the healing of the retina. Avoiding reading and writing is particularly important because these activities require focused vision and can increase the risk of further agitation in the eye, potentially leading to complications or impairing the healing process.

In the early recovery phase post-surgery, ensuring rest for the eye is paramount. Activities that involve intense concentration or extended periods of focus may increase intraocular pressure or contribute to discomfort, making it advisable to refrain from them. This allows the surgical site to heal properly without additional stress.

Furthermore, the other options generally do not align with the typical postoperative care for a detached retina. Encouraging deep-breathing exercises might be beneficial for overall recovery but does not specifically address the needs of the eye. Allowing the client to ambulate freely is often limited for safety reasons immediately after surgery, especially if the client has been anesthetized. Removing the eye patch during the day might expose the eye to potential irritants and is often discouraged to protect the surgical area and maintain proper healing conditions.