HOSA Clinical Nursing Assessment Practice Test 2025 - Free Clinical Nursing Practice Questions and Study Guide

Swelling around the eye is a hallmark symptom of orbital cellulitis. This condition is characterized by an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to inflammation and noticeable puffiness in the eyelids and periorbital area. Patients suffering from orbital cellulitis often present with pronounced erythema (redness) and edema (swelling), which can cause the eye to protrude slightly, a condition known as proptosis.

Understanding this symptom is critical for distinguishing orbital cellulitis from other conditions, such as conjunctivitis or allergic reactions, which may have different presentations and implications for treatment. The other options, while they may occur in different medical scenarios, do not specifically correlate with the classic presentation of orbital cellulitis. Recognizing the swelling around the eye as a primary symptom is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention to prevent complications.