The nurse is preparing to administer an eye ointment to the patient. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

Question

a. Clean away drainage or crusts by wiping from the outer to the inner canthus.
b. Instruct the patient to keep the eye open for 2 minutes after instillation.
c. Apply a thin ribbon evenly along the inner edge of the lower eyelid.
d. Instruct the patient to avoid wiping the eye after instillation.

Answer 1

C
While holding the ointment applicator above the lower lid margin, apply a thin ribbon of ointment evenly along the inner edge of the lower eyelid on the conjunctiva from the inner canthus to the outer canthus. This distributes medication evenly across the eye and lid margin. Eyes are cleansed from the inner to the outer canthus to avoid entry of microorganisms into the lacrimal duct. After instillation, the patient is instructed to close the eye and rub the lid lightly in a circular motion, if not contraindicated, to distribute the medication. If excess medication is on the eyelid, it can be gently wiped from the inner to the outer canthus.