Question

List four principles for administering eye instillations?

1) Use a sterile technique
2) Administer the medication directly onto the cornea
3) Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any other surface
4) Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye after instillation

Answer 1

Adhering to principles of sterile technique, avoiding direct contact with the cornea, maintaining dropper sterility, and preventing the rapid drainage of medication is critical for safe and effective eye instillation. These measures are particularly important for preventing or treating conditions like glaucoma or neonatal conjunctivitis.

To ensure the safe and effective administration of eye instillations, certain principles should be followed:

1. Use sterile technique to prevent infections.
2. Administer the medication without directly touching the cornea to avoid injury or contamination.
3. Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any other surface to maintain the sterility of the medication.
4. Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye after instillation. This helps prevent the medication from draining away too quickly.

Following these eye instillation principles is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment and the safety of the patient, especially when managing conditions such as glaucoma or neonatal conjunctivitis. Regular testing for intraocular pressure is recommended for those over 40, and excessive pressures can be detected and managed, preventing vision loss.

The subject of glaucoma is important to health, as people above 40 should undergo regular intraocular pressure testing. For neonates, the importance of administering eye medications with a sterile technique is underscored by the need to prevent serious eye infections after birth.