What sign should the nurse monitor for acute angle-closure glaucoma when a patient has prolonged pupil dilation?

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, which can occur when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked. In this condition, the nurse should monitor for specific signs that indicate the presence of this eye emergency. Prolonged pupil dilation is a key sign, which is often accompanied by significant symptoms.

When assessing a patient with potential acute angle-closure glaucoma, nausea, vomiting, and acute eye pain are critical signs to identify. These symptoms arise due to the rapid increase in intraocular pressure, which causes intense pain and discomfort in the eye, often radiating to the forehead or brow. The nausea and vomiting are reflexive responses to the severe pain or the acute onset of the condition, making these symptoms particularly indicative of an impending ocular crisis.

The identification of these signs is crucial, as they point towards the need for immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss. Therefore, monitoring for nausea, vomiting, and acute eye pain in conjunction with pupil dilation provides important insights into the patient's condition and aids in timely diagnosis and treatment of acute angle-closure glaucoma.