A patient is brought into the emergency department complaining of blindness after an explosion at an atomic power plant. What should the nurse explain to this patient?

Question

1. "The effects of the blast will disappear with time."
2. "I'm afraid the blast has caused permanent blindness."
3. "I will contact Social Services so that resources can be identified to help you with your disability."
4. "There is a variety of resources available for those who are unable to see."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1

The bright flash of a nuclear detonation can cause temporary blindness, but vision returns in up to 30 minutes. The patient may need assistance until vision is restored. The nurse should explain that the effects of the blast will disappear with time. The nurse should not say that the patient is permanently blind. The nurse does not need to contact social services at this time for the patient's temporary blindness. Suggesting resources for the vision-impaired is premature, as the blindness is temporary.