Question

64 year old jessie is experiencing an inflamed pterygia lesion has been prescribed loteprednol topical steroid drops for 7 days. the patient shows no improvement in symptoms. what is the next course of action?
consult with an ophthalmologist.
continue the medication for 7 more days.
prescribe a systemic corticosteroid.
refer the patient to the emergency department.

Explanation:

When a patient does not respond to topical steroid drops (lote - prednol) for an inflamed pterygia lesion after 7 days, it is appropriate to consult a specialist. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye diseases. Continuing the same medication for another 7 days is not likely to be effective as the patient has already shown no improvement. Prescribing a systemic corticosteroid without proper evaluation (by an ophthalmologist) may have significant side - effects. Referring to the emergency department is an over - reaction as the condition is not immediately life - or - sight - threatening in the absence of other emergency symptoms.

Answer:

Consult with an ophthalmologist.