Question

When caring for the client with macular degeneration, the nurse should

a. face the client directly.
b. hold the client's arm when walking.
c. refrain from touching the client.
d. stand to the client's side?

Answer 1

The nurse should stand to the client's side. The principle of this is that the macula is the part of the retina wherein central vision is most prominent. In patient's with macular degeneration, central vision is impaired and if the nurse should face the client directly, then the patient may not be able to see the nurse. Since the peripheral vision of patients with macular degeneration is intact, standing on the client's side should help the patient to see the nurse.