When assessing a client with Bell's palsy, which finding may the nurse expect?

In a client with Bell's palsy, one of the hallmark symptoms is the inability to close the eye on the affected side. This condition results from inflammation of the facial nerve, which can lead to weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face. When assessing a patient, the nurse would observe that the individual cannot adequately close the eye on the side affected, leading to potential issues such as dryness or exposure of the cornea.

Other symptoms may include an asymmetric smile, which suggests that the muscles responsible for facial expressions are compromised. However, the defining feature in this context is the difficulty in eye closure, as it directly reflects the dysfunction of the facial nerve that characterizes Bell's palsy. This inability can be particularly notable when the patient is asked to voluntarily close their eyes, as one side will remain open due to muscle weakness.

This understanding is crucial for nursing assessments and interventions, as it informs care plans that may include measures to protect the eye and manage the other effects of facial asymmetry.