Lorraine Poulos

31 Medication Support Safe eye drops/ointment administration 1 2 3 4 Know your client: • Understand related medical condition pertaining to the eye care • Check care plan for special instructions regarding storage / handling Before the task: • Check medication chart / care plan for directions for administration • Check if drops / ointment are for one or both eyes • Attend hand hygiene • Check medication label for correct name and expiry date • Reassure client, prepare them for procedure, assist them to comfortable position During the task: • Apply PPE (gloves) • Carry out an eye cleansing toilet if required • Assist the client to comfortable position and ask / assist the client to tilt their head back slightly and to look upwards • Gently with one finger draw the lower lid down, instil a drop in the middle of the lower lid • Ointment: before applying, squeeze a small amount onto a tissue and discard • Ointment: gently with one finger draw the lower lid down and without touching the lower lid with the tube, apply 1 cm of ointment along the surface • Ask the client to close the eyelid for one minute • Avoid touching the eye with the container • Repeat procedure if more drops are required • Remove any excess with a tissue or touch dry with tissue around area After the task: • Recap the tube and store appropriately • Check client is comfortable • Observe for any reactions Document in the Client Journal: • Discharge (colour, amount), pain, discomfort, reduced vision • Redness to eye 5 Guide for consumers, carers and workers