A patient with a corneal abrasion is being discharged after treatment with fluorescein and proparacaine drops. Looking in the mirror, the patient says, "My eye is yellow! What happened?" How should the nurse respond?

Question

1. "Unfortunately, corneal abrasion treatment can cause discoloration of the eye for several weeks.".
2. "The color helps us see the abrasion and will be washed away by your normal tears.".
3. "I have not seen this reaction before. I will contact the health care provider.".
4. "When you get home, put a hot compress on the eye. If the color doesn't clear in an hour, call us back.".

Answer 1

2
Rationale 1: The discoloration should not last "several weeks.".
Rationale 2: Drops are used to numb the eye and help identify the presence, size, and location of the corneal abrasion. They leave a yellow-green discoloration in the eye, on the lashes, and on surrounding tissue that will clear with tears.
Rationale 3: The nurse should be prepared to answer this question and provide discharge instruction.
Rationale 4: There is no need for a hot compress, which is likely contraindicated for the injury.