The role of the AGACNP
Present one HEENT diagnosis/complication relevant to the role of the AGACNP. Include risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment, including pharmacologic treatment, nonpharmacologic treatment, and prevention modalities. You may present your post as a case-study. Do not duplicate topics. Support your answer with a minimum of two APRN peer-reviewed resources.
Sample Solution
The case I am presenting is a patient with acute glaucoma, related to the role of an AGACNP. Glaucoma is a condition associated with increased intraocular pressure that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Risk factors are age (over 60), Hispanic or African American descent, family history of glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, and long-term use of steroids (American Academy of Ophthalmology [AAO], 2019).Diagnosis of acute glaucoma is based on ocular exam findings such as elevated intraocular pressure greater than 21 mmHg; corneal edema; hazy appearing lens; mid-dilated pupil which does not constrict when exposed to light; congested conjunctival vessels (bloodshot appearance); headache/eye pain; blurred vision (AAO, 2019). These signs must be objectively measured for diagnosis. Additional testing for diagnosis include visual field test evaluation for central vision deficits and nerve fiber layer analysis via optical coherence tomography imaging.
Treatment includes pharmacologic agents such as prostaglandin analogues like bimatoprost or timolol maleate which reduce intraocular pressure by reducing production of fluid in anterior chamber and increasing outflow from it. Nonpharmacologic measures involve laser therapy known as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty where lasers are used to burn away parts in drainage areas allowing extra fluid to leave faster resulting in reduced IOP. Surgery may also be an option if milder treatments fail called Glaucoma Drainage Devices which works by creating internal plumbing system that allows the flow of excess fluid out the eye while simultaneously allowing normal amount back into eye thereby restoring balance between production and evacuation making sure IOP doesn’t get too high (AAO, 2019). Prevention modalities include early detection through comprehensive dilated eye exams throughout life especially people over 40 years old at least once every 2 years depending on risk factors mentioned above (American Optometric Association [AOA], 2020). It is essential for AGACNPs provide patient education about preventive measures including regular dilated eye exams with optometrist or ophthalmologist along with adherence to treatment regimen prescribed by treating physician.. .
References:
American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2019). Glaucoma definition & facts: What is glaucoma? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucomadf#treatment
American Optometric Association.(2020) Know Your Eye Health Numbers: Get Routine Eye Exams Retrived from https://www.aoafamilyeyecarecenterfinderserviceonlineresearchcenterguidetocomprehensiveselfcareproviders_pwrdaccess_20200801_155318