Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

A key feature of hyphema is the accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye. This condition often occurs as a result of trauma, surgical procedures, or certain medical conditions that may lead to bleeding. When blood collects in the anterior chamber, it can cause various symptoms, including changes in visual acuity and potential ocular pressure elevation. The presence of blood can be observed during a slit lamp examination, and the amount of blood present can help guide further management and intervention. While symptoms such as eye pain, changes in pupil size, or decreased visual acuity can occur in association with hyphema, they are not exclusive to this condition and can arise from other ocular issues as well. Therefore, recognizing the accumulation of blood specifically in the anterior chamber is crucial for diagnosing and managing hyphema effectively.