Name of the Procedure:

Glaucoma Plan of Care Documented (EC)

• Common Term: Glaucoma Care Plan
• Medical Term: Glaucoma Management and Treatment Plan

Summary

A glaucoma plan of care documents the comprehensive management strategy for patients diagnosed with glaucoma, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and monitoring to prevent vision loss.

Purpose

This care plan addresses the chronic eye condition known as glaucoma, characterized by increased intraocular pressure which can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss.

• Goals: To manage intraocular pressure, prevent further optic nerve damage, and preserve vision.

Indications

• High intraocular pressure
• Diagnosed glaucoma (open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma)
• Family history of glaucoma
• Signs of optic nerve damage
• Visual field loss

Preparation

• Comprehensive eye examination
• Diagnostic tests like tonometry, optic nerve imaging, and visual field tests
• Review of medical history
• Medication review and adjustment

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: Detailed review of the patient's eye health and medical history.
2. Diagnostic Tests: Conduct and document tests to assess intraocular pressure, optic nerve health, and visual field.
3. Treatment Plan:
   • Prescription eye drops to lower intraocular pressure.
   • Oral medications might also be prescribed in some cases.
   • Possible surgical options (laser or traditional surgery) explained if necessary.

4. Monitoring Schedule: Regular follow-ups to monitor intraocular pressure and optic nerve health.

   Tools:

   • Tonometry devices for measuring eye pressure.
   • Imaging devices for optic nerve and retinal examination.
   • Visual field test machines.

Duration

Initial assessment and planning can take 1-2 hours. Follow-up appointments typically last 30 minutes.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Ophthalmologist’s office

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist
• Optometrist
• Nurses or medical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Possible side effects from medications (e.g., eye irritation, blurred vision)
• Rare but potential complications from surgical interventions (e.g., infection, bleeding)
• Risk of progressive vision loss if not managed properly

Benefits

• Control of intraocular pressure
• Prevention of further optic nerve damage
• Preservation of vision and overall eye health
• Improved quality of life

Recovery

• No recovery time required for the assessment itself.
• Post-surgical recovery varies, with instructions on eye care, activity restrictions, and medication adherence.
• Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor and adjust the care plan.

Alternatives

• Laser therapy (e.g., trabeculoplasty) for reducing intraocular pressure
• Traditional surgery (e.g., trabeculectomy) if medication is not sufficient
• Pros: These alternatives can offer more permanent pressure control.
• Cons: More invasive with greater risk of complications.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel anxious about vision loss; education and reassurance are crucial.
• Regular use of eye drops or medications will be required.
• Some procedures may cause temporary discomfort or blurred vision.
• Pain management and comfort measures are discussed to ensure patient ease during treatment.