CEA Nursing Practice Exam

A consistent examination finding for acute closed angle glaucoma is which of the following?

1. Macular degeneration.

2. Increase in intraocular pressure.

3. AV nicking.

4. Loss of aqueous humor volume.

The correct answer is: Increase in intraocular pressure.

The examination finding characterized by an increase in intraocular pressure is a hallmark of acute closed angle glaucoma. This condition occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes physically blocked, preventing aqueous humor from properly exiting the anterior chamber. As a result, pressure builds up rapidly, which can lead to significant damage to the optic nerve and, if untreated, can result in vision loss. In the context of this condition, the increased intraocular pressure can also be accompanied by symptoms such as severe eye pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances. This situation requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications. Other options, such as macular degeneration or AV nicking, reflect different pathological processes and are not indicative of acute closed angle glaucoma. Macular degeneration relates to changes in the macula, affecting central vision over time, while AV nicking occurs due to hypertension and does not relate directly to intraocular pressure changes. Loss of aqueous humor volume may occur in different conditions affecting eye fluid dynamics, but in acute closed angle glaucoma, it is specifically the accumulation and resultant pressure increase that is critical.