Diabetic Retinopathy

In this content review, we will do a review of what the retina is and how it affects vision.  We will then define what a diabetic retinopathy is along with signs and symptoms of this chronic eye disorder.  We will identify some causes and risk factors for retinopathy along with signs and symptoms and potential complications.  We will then explore diagnostics and testing used to confirm retinopathy along with testing for its underlying causes. Finally we will cover nursing interventions and client education topics on recognizing symptoms, symptom management and treatment, and preservation of vision.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Define diabetic retinopathy
2. Discuss causes and risk factors for developing diabetic retinopathy
3. Explain treatment methods for managing diabetic retinopathy
4. Identify nursing interventions for treating diabetic retinopathy
5. Determine diagnostic testing used to assess for diabetic retinopathy