A nurse is applying erythromycin eye ointment to a newborn’s eyes.
How much ointment should the nurse squeeze into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye?
A.
0.25 cm
B.
0.5 cm
C.
1 cm
D.
2 cm
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. 0.5 cm.
When applying erythromycin eye ointment to a newborn’s eyes, the recommended amount is typically about 0.5 cm of ointment squeezed into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye. This amount is considered sufficient to provide the necessary antimicrobial effect while minimizing potential side effects, such as excessive residue or irritation.
Erythromycin is commonly used as a prophylactic treatment in newborns to prevent bacterial infections, particularly ophthalmia neonatorum, which can occur due to exposure to bacteria during birth, especially from sexually transmitted infections in the mother. The application of this ointment is a standard procedure in neonatal care to safeguard the infant’s eyes against potential pathogens.
The technique for administering the ointment involves ensuring that the newborn is comfortably positioned, typically supine, and that the nurse follows strict infection control practices. The nurse should first wash their hands and may need to wear gloves. Then, with one hand, the nurse gently pulls down the lower eyelid to create a small pouch, the conjunctival sac, where the ointment will be deposited. The tube of ointment should be held at a slight angle to prevent contact with the eye or eyelid, and the nurse should avoid touching the tube to the newborn’s eye to prevent contamination.
After applying the ointment, the nurse should ensure that the ointment is evenly distributed and that the newborn does not rub their eyes, which could lead to inadequate medication distribution or irritation. Additionally, the nurse should monitor the newborn for any signs of an allergic reaction or irritation, which could necessitate further evaluation or intervention.
In summary, using 0.5 cm of erythromycin eye ointment is effective for newborns, ensuring adequate coverage while prioritizing safety and comfort.