Nurse Leadership Questions Related

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A nurse is preparing to administer eye drops to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Ask the client to look upward while instilling the drops
  • B. Place the drops directly onto the cornea
  • C. Wipe the eye from outer to inner canthus
  • D. Hold the dropper 5 cm (2 in) above the eye
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering eye drops requires technique to ensure delivery and comfort. Asking the client to look upward while instilling drops positions the cornea away from the dropper, allowing medication to pool in the lower conjunctival sac, minimizing irritation and maximizing absorption per standard protocol. Placing drops on the cornea risks injury and reflex blinking, wiping outer to inner spreads contaminants toward the tear duct, and holding 5 cm (2 in) above is excessive 1-2 cm avoids splashing. Looking upward is safe, effective, and client-friendly, aligning with nursing practice to deliver ocular meds accurately, preventing complications like infection or trauma in a delicate area.