Question

The nurse provides education to a patient who is diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis. which patient statement indicates correct understanding of the information presented?

1. "My partner will require antibiotic drops too."
2. "The antibiotic drops will block the release of histamine."
3. "I can continue to wear the same contact lenses after treatment."
4. "The ointment will be placed directly into my eye to treat the infection."

Answer 1

The patient's correct understanding is indicated by acknowledging that antibiotic ointment or drops are used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis and should be applied directly into the eye.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct understanding of the information presented about bacterial conjunctivitis would be indicated by a patient's statement acknowledging that antibiotic ointment or drops should be placed directly into the eye to treat the infection. This local treatment targets the causative bacteria of the conjunctivitis and helps to resolve the infection. Notably, antibiotics used in such topical treatments do not block the release of histamine, which is more relevant to allergic reactions than bacterial infections.

Also, as bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can be transmitted via secretions, it is important to maintain good hygiene with contact lenses or to discontinue their use during treatment, as recommended by health-care professionals. The use of contact lenses can be resumed only after the treatment has been completed and with the approval of a healthcare professional. Moreover, partners of infected individuals would not require treatment unless they are exhibiting symptoms or a healthcare provider recommends it based on exposure and clinical judgment.