What symptom should a nurse anticipate in a client diagnosed with acute angle-closure glaucoma?

In a client diagnosed with acute angle-closure glaucoma, severe eye pain is a symptom that would be anticipated due to the sudden increase in intraocular pressure associated with this condition. Acute angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes blocked, leading to rapid and significant pressure build-up. This increased pressure can cause a range of symptoms, with intense pain being particularly prominent.

Severe eye pain in this context is often described as sharp or throbbing and can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and vomiting. It is important for healthcare providers to recognize this symptom quickly, as acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Identifying severe eye pain as a key symptom helps in the early diagnosis and management of this serious condition.