1. The client/caregiver can explain the purpose of retina and possible problems.
   1. The retina is the light sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inside of the eye.
   2. It sends visual messages to the brain.
   3. The optic nerve serves as a go-between for the retina and the brain.
   4. If the retina is pulled away or lifted from the lining of the eye, vision loss will occur.
   5. Types of retina damage are
      • Retina tear
      • Retina breaks
      • Retina detachment
2. The client/caregiver can describe causes and possible risk factors.
   1. Causes of retinal detachment
      1. Fluid accumulates under retina and separates it from underlying layer.
      2. Scarring causes the retina to contract and separate.
      3. Inflammatory disease or trauma allows fluid to leak under the retina and separate.
   2. Factors that increase risk for retina detachment
      • Older than the age of 40 years
      • Men more than women
      • Whites more than African Americans
      • Extremely nearsighted
      • Retinal detachment in the other eye
      • Previous cataract surgery
      • Family history of retinal detachment
      • Eye injury or trauma
3. The client/caregiver can list symptoms and possible complications.
   1. Symptoms include
      1. Sudden or gradual increase in the number of “floaters” (specks that float in your field of vision) and/or light flashes in the eye
      2. Appearance of a curtain over field of vision
   2. Complication of untreated retina detachment can result in blindness. Consult with physician or eye care professional promptly if symptoms begin.
   3. This can become a medical emergency.

Resources

Emergency care facility
National Eye Institute (National Institutes of Health)
www.nei.nih.gov