Eye drops

EYE DROPS INSTILLATION FOR BSC NURSING FIRST YEAR

1. Instillation of eye drops Mr . Manikandan.T , RN., RM., M.Sc (N)., D.C.A .,( Ph.D ) Assistant Professor, Dept. of Medical Surgical Nursing, VMCON, Puducherry .

2. Definition Eye Drop instillation is a instillation of prescribed occular preparation into the eyes.

3. pOints to remember This is a clean procedure where both eyes may require treatment, each eye must be treated separately. If infection is present, there should be 2 bottles of medication, one for each eye to prevent cross contamination. If only one container, the least affected eye should be treated first to minimize the likelihood of transfer of infection from one eye to the other. If more than one medication is being inserted into the eye, care must be taken to give time for the first medication to be absorbed, before applying further medication

4. purpose Treat infection To dilate or contract pupil To instill medication before examination or surgery to eyes To relive pain, itching, discomfort. Lubricate eyes To stain cornea for identifying abrasion and scars

5. equipment Prescribed eye drops/ointment Dressing pack (small gauze/ cotton ball) Apron Kidney tray Normal saline Medication card Prescribed medication form Record form

6. procedure Identify the patient Explain Check history of allergy Explain the benefits and potential side effects Collect and check all equipment Encourage the patient to sit / lie with head tilted backwards and well supported Check the prescription designating drops OD – Occular Dexter (Right Eye) OS – Occular Sinister (Left Eye) OU – Occular Uterque (Both Eyes)

7. Cont., Remove cap from the container and kee it in clean surface Ensure adequate light source Gently pull down the lower eyelid and ask the patient to look upward. Instill prescribed number of drops into center of lower fornix If additional eye drop ordered wait for 5 minutes between each medication documentation

8. Eye ointment - procedure Wash hands Hold the nozzle of the tube approximately 2.5 cm above the eye Apply a line of ointment to the inner edge of the lower lid from the nasal corner outwards Encourage the patient to close the eyes but not to squeeze or rub them Dab away excess medication with gauze Ensure patient comfort Remove gloves Dispose of gloves and other waste as per infection control policy

9. Thank you