What instruction should a nurse provide to a client after scleral buckling for a detached retina?

After scleral buckling for a detached retina, the instruction to avoid reading for 1 week is particularly important for several reasons. Reading requires focused vision, which can strain the affected eye during the critical healing period after surgery. This activity could potentially lead to increased intraocular pressure or stress on the eye, which may hinder the healing process or cause discomfort.

In addition to the need for rest and minimizing strain on the eye, avoiding activities that require concentration on close objects, such as reading, allows for better recovery and reduces the risk of complications. The emphasis on protecting the eye and allowing it to heal properly is crucial for achieving the best outcomes after such a procedure.

While other options may have their own importance in managing health or protecting vision, the primary focus after retinal surgery is to allow the eye to recover without added stress or strain, making the recommendation to refrain from reading within the first week post-surgery a key component of post-operative care.