Vision Loss as a Complication of Nonophthalmologic Surgery: Implications for Care for the Perianesthesia Nurse

Postoperative vision loss not associated with ophthalmic surgery is a topic that has emerged in recent literature. Although presentation of this complication is rare, perianesthesia nurses should update their knowledge base to include knowledge of these devastating events. A review of common ocular events associated with postoperative vision loss, and the symptoms, assessment, management, and treatment of these events are indicated. The aim of this article is to explore the process of postoperative vision loss and present useful strategies to nurses for optimization of perianesthesia care.

Keywords: postoperative vision loss, perianesthesia care, anesthesia, spinal surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass, continuing education