A nurse in an ophthalmology clinic is teaching an older adult client how to independently administer prescribed glaucoma eye drops at home. Arrange the steps of this self-care procedure in the correct chronological sequence.
- 1Wash hands with soap and water and remove the medication cap.
- 2Tilt the head back slightly and gaze upward toward the ceiling.
- 3Gently pull the lower eyelid downward against the cheekbone to form a pocket.
- 4Instill the prescribed number of drops into the conjunctival sac without touching the dropper to the eye.
- 5Close the eye gently and apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes.
Answer
The correct chronological sequence for self-administering eye drops is: wash hands, tilt head back, form a pocket with the lower eyelid, instill the drop into the conjunctival sac, and finally close the eye while applying pressure to the inner canthus.
Safe and effective self-administration of eye drops requires a precise sequence to ensure sterility, proper placement, and local absorption. The client must first wash their hands to prevent infection. Next, tilting the head back and pulling the lower eyelid down creates a pocket in the conjunctival sac, which is less sensitive than the cornea. Instilling the drop into this sac without touching the dropper to the eye maintains sterility. Finally, applying pressure to the inner canthus (nasolacrimal occlusion) minimizes systemic absorption of the medication, which is particularly important for glaucoma medications.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Self-Administration of Ophthalmic Medications
Estimated Time:1m 0s