Symptom: Vision Changes

Initial Grading Reminder

CTCAE Criteria for Vision Changes:

Grade 1: Asymptomatic or mild changes; clinical or diagnostic observations only; intervention not indicated
Grade 2: Moderate; minimal; local or noninvasive intervention indicated; limiting age-appropriate instrumental ADLs
Grade 3: Severe or medically significant but not immediately sight-threatening; hospitalization or prolongation of existing hospitalization indicated; disabling; limiting self-care ADLs
Grade 4: Sight-threatening consequences; urgent intervention indicated; blindness (20/200 or worse) in the affected eye

Assessment and Grading

Characterize the symptom (onset, pace)

Ask the patient:

Have you had any issues with your vision in the past? Is this a new or worsening symptom? When did it start or get worse? Has it developed gradually or suddenly?

Grade the symptom

Ask the patient:

How bad is your vision change? Are you able to carry out your normal activities? Drive? Take care of yourself? Do you have other eye issues (pain, redness, etc?)

Patient Query Regarding Other Symptoms/Red Flags

Ask the patient:

Do you have any headaches, dizziness, nausea, and/or vomiting?

Patient Factors to Consider That Affect the Approach to Intervention

Consider the following in individualizing the intervention: Is the patient a good or poor historian? Any language barriers or cognitive deficits? Is the patient reliable (able to carry out treatment recommendations)? Does this patient have alcohol/substance abuse issues? Does the patient have transportation? Is there sufficient caregiver support?