A nurse is preparing to administer ophthalmic solution to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
Ask the client to look down when instilling the solution.
B.
Instil the drops into the superior canthus.
C.
Approach the client’s eye from below it.
D.
Hold the ophthalmic solution 2 cm (3/4 inch) above the lower conjunctival sac.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Hold the ophthalmic solution 2 cm (3/4 inch) above the lower conjunctival sac.
When administering ophthalmic solutions, the goal is to deliver the medication accurately and safely into the eye while minimizing discomfort for the client. Holding the ophthalmic solution 2 cm above the lower conjunctival sac allows for proper instillation. This position helps to ensure that the drops fall directly into the eye, enhancing absorption and effectiveness while preventing contamination of the dropper tip.
Here’s a breakdown of the other options and why they are not the best practices:
A. Ask the client to look down when instilling the solution.
While looking down can sometimes help, it is generally more effective to have the client look up. This position allows the lower eyelid to be pulled down more easily, creating a pocket for the drops to be instilled. If the client looks down, the drops may not land in the conjunctival sac properly.
B. Instill the drops into the superior canthus.
This is incorrect because the drops should be instilled into the lower conjunctival sac rather than the superior canthus. Instilling drops inappropriately can lead to ineffective treatment and increased irritation.
C. Approach the client’s eye from below it.
While this might seem intuitive, it is often recommended to approach the eye from above. This helps to minimize the risk of blinking or closing the eye, which could spill the medication.
Overall, the correct technique for administering ophthalmic solutions involves positioning the dropper correctly, ensuring that the medication enters the lower conjunctival sac while minimizing discomfort and maximizing effectiveness. Holding the dropper 2 cm above the eye is crucial for achieving this goal. Proper technique not only facilitates effective treatment but also enhances patient trust in the care provided.